Films and bags with visually distinct regions and methods of making the same

ABSTRACT

One or more implementations of a multi-layer film include a first layer non-continuously bonded to a second pigmented layer. The multi-layer film includes an unexpected appearance differing from the appearance of the pigmented layer. In one or more embodiments, the multi-layer film includes a metallic appearance despite the pigmented layer being devoid of metallic pigment. The multi-layer film also includes areas that are visually distinct from areas of the film with the unexpected appearance. The visually-distinct areas comprise areas in which the first layer non-continuously is in intimate contact with the second pigmented layer. The visually-distinct areas have the appearance of the pigmented layer or another appearance. One or more implementations also include methods of making multi-layer films and bags with an unexpected appearance and visually-distinct areas.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/647,053, filed Jul. 11, 2017, and entitled “FILMS AND BAGS WITH VISUALLY DISTINCT REGIONS AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME;” which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/485,463, filed Sep. 12, 2014, and entitled “FILMS AND BAGS WITH VISUALLY DISTINCT REGIONS AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME” and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,731,475, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/660,844, filed Oct. 25, 2012, and entitled “THERMOPLASTIC MULTI-PLY FILM WITH METALLIC APPEARANCE” and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,865,294. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/485,463 is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/299,177 filed Nov. 17, 2011 and entitled “MULTI-LAYERED LIGHTLY-LAMINATED FILMS AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME” and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,186,862, which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/947,025 filed Nov. 16, 2010 and entitled “DISCONTINUOUSLY LAMINATED FILM” and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,603,609, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/261,673, filed Nov. 16, 2009. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/485,463 is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/838,394, filed Mar. 15, 2013, and entitled “DISCONTINUOUSLY LAMINATED FILM STRUCTURES WITH IMPROVED VISUAL CHARACTERISTICS” and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,393,757, which is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/454,412, filed Apr. 24, 2012, entitled “THERMOPLASTIC FILMS WITH VISUALLY-DISTINCT STRETCHED REGIONS AND METHODS FOR MAKING THE SAME” and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,381,697, which claims priority to U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 61/478,639, filed Apr. 25, 2011, entitled “THERMOPLASTIC FILMS WITH VISUALLY-DISTINCT STRETCHED REGIONS AND METHODS FOR MAKING THE SAME”. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/838,394 is also a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/454,474, filed Apr. 24, 2012, entitled “MULTI-LAYER FILMS WITH VISUALLY-DISTINCT REGIONS AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME” and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,381,718, which claims priority to U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 61/478,643, filed Apr. 25, 2011, entitled “MULTI-LAYER FILMS WITH VISUALLY-DISTINCT REGIONS AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME”. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/838,394 also is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/552,352, filed Jul. 18, 2012, entitled “MULTI-PLY PUCKERED FILMS FORMED BY DISCONTINUOUS LAMINATION OF FILMS HAVING DIFFERENT REBOUND RATIOS” and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,486,977, and is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of, and claims priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/660,844, filed Oct. 25, 2012, entitled “THERMOPLASTIC MULTI-PLY FILM WITH METALLIC APPEARANCE” and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,865,294, and is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of, and claims priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/947,025, filed Nov. 16, 2010, entitled “DISCONTINUOUSLY LAMINATED FILM” and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,603,609. The contents of each of the above-referenced applications and patent(s) are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

The present application relates generally to thermoplastic films and bags formed therefrom. More particularly, the present invention relates to thermoplastic films and bags including multiple layers and unique aesthetics.

2. Background and Relevant Art

Thermoplastic films are a common component in various commercial and consumer products. For example, grocery bags, trash bags, sacks, and packaging materials are products that are commonly made from thermoplastic films. Additionally, feminine hygiene products, baby diapers, adult incontinence products, and many other products include thermoplastic films to one extent or another.

The cost to produce products including thermoplastic film is directly related to the cost of the thermoplastic film. Recently the cost of thermoplastic materials has risen. In response, many manufacturers attempt to control manufacturing costs by decreasing the amount of thermoplastic material in a given product.

One way manufacturers may attempt to reduce production costs is to use thinner films or stretch the thermoplastic films, thereby increasing surface area and reducing the amount of thermoplastic film needed to produce a product of a given size. Unfortunately, stretched or otherwise thinner thermoplastic films can have undesirable properties. For example, thinner thermoplastic films are typically more transparent or translucent. Additionally, consumers commonly associate thinner films with weakness. Such consumers may feel that they are receiving less value for their money when purchasing products with thinner films; and thus, may be dissuaded to purchase thinner thermoplastic films.

To compensate for some deficiencies of thinner films, manufacturers may add colorants or voiding agents. Depending on how they are used, however, colorants and voiding agents can sometimes weaken the chemical bonds in the film, and create a still weaker film. Moreover, the use of certain colors in a film structure may present unique challenges, such as expensive. For example, metallic pigments, which are often thought of as indicating strength, are particularly expensive. As such, the cost of some pigments can counter any savings gained by the use of thinner films. Furthermore, even pigmented films commonly become less opaque upon stretching.

As such, manufacturers may be dissuaded to stretch a film or use thinner films despite the potential material savings. This is particularly the case when strength is an important feature in the thermoplastic product. For example, thermoplastic trash bags need to be puncture and tear resistant to avoid inadvertently spilling any contents during disposal. Consumers may be hesitant to purchase bags made from thinner films fearing that the bags will fail along the seams or other areas of the bag commonly subjected to stresses.

BRIEF SUMMARY

One or more implementations of the present invention provide benefits and/or solve one or more of the foregoing or other problems in the art with films and bags with a unique appearance and visually-distinct regions. In particular, the appearance of the films can provide multi-layers films with a unique metallic or other appearance that differs from the appearance of the individual layers alone. The films can be non-continuously bonded together and have regions in which the layers are in intimate contact. Such regions can be visually distinct from the other areas of the film in which the layers are not in intimate contact. The visually-distinct regions can provide a visual cue to the consumer about the strength and quality of the film. Furthermore, the visually-distinct regions can provide a unique and pleasing visual effect.

Additional features and advantages of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary embodiments. The features and advantages of such embodiments may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary embodiments as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to describe the manner in which the above recited and other advantages and features of the invention can be obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. It should be noted that the figures are not drawn to scale, and that elements of similar structure or function are generally represented by like reference numerals for illustrative purposes throughout the figures. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIGS. 1A-IC illustrate views of various films structures in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a view of a multi-layer film with areas in which two layers are in intimate contact in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 3A illustrates a schematic diagram of two thermoplastic films being brought into intimate contact and laminated by machine direction “MD” intermeshing rollers in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 3B illustrates an enlarged view of the two thermoplastic films passing together through the intermeshing rollers of FIG. 3A taken along the circle 3B of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4 illustrates a view of a multi-layered thermoplastic film with visually distinct regions created by passing thermoplastic films through the intermeshing rollers of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 5A a schematic diagram of two thermoplastic films being brought into intimate contact and laminated by transverse direction “TD” intermeshing rollers in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 5B illustrates an enlarged view of the films prior to passing through the intermeshing rollers of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C illustrates an enlarged view of the films passing through the intermeshing rollers of FIG. 5A taken along through the film and intermeshing rollers along a plane passing through the axes of the intermeshing rollers;

FIG. 5D illustrates an enlarged view of the multi-layer film after passing through the intermeshing rollers of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6 illustrates a view of a multi-layered thermoplastic film with visually-distinct regions created by passing thermoplastic films through the intermeshing rollers of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 7A illustrates a view of a multi-layered thermoplastic film with visually-distinct regions created by passing thermoplastic film through the intermeshing rollers of both FIG. 3A and FIG. 5A;

FIG. 7B illustrates a view of another multi-layered thermoplastic film with visually-distinct regions created by passing thermoplastic film through the intermeshing rollers of both FIG. 3A and FIG. 5A;

FIG. 8 illustrates a view of a multi-layered thermoplastic film with visually-distinct regions created by passing thermoplastic films through diagonal direction “DD” intermeshing rollers in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic diagram of a set of intermeshing rollers used to form a structural elastic like film (SELF) by imparting strainable networks into the film while lightly laminating adjacent layers of a film in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a view of a multi-layered thermoplastic film with visually-distinct regions created by passing thermoplastic films through the intermeshing rollers of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 illustrates a view of another multi-layered thermoplastic film with visually-distinct regions including strainable networks in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 12A illustrates a schematic diagram of an implementation of embossing intermeshing rollers for use in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 12B illustrates a close up of the protrusions and intermeshing recessions of the rollers of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12C illustrates a view of a multi-layered thermoplastic film with visually-distinct regions created by the intermeshing rollers of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 13 illustrates a bag incorporating the multi-layered film with visually-distinct regions of FIG. 4 and visually-distinct side seals in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates a bag incorporating a multi-layered film with visually-distinct regions and decorative visually-distinct side seals in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 15A illustrates another bag having visually-distinct regions created by SELFing and visually-distinct seals in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 15B illustrates another bag having multiple different visually-distinct regions created by TD ring rolling in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 15C illustrates another bag having multiple different visually-distinct regions created by SELFing and visually-distinct seals in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 15D illustrates another bag having visually-distinct regions created by SELFing and visually-distinct seals in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 15E illustrates the bag of FIG. 15D within a trash receptacle in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates a bag incorporating sections of different patterns of visually-distinct regions and visually-distinct seals in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 17 illustrates a schematic diagram of a bag manufacturing process in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 18A illustrates a sealing process in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 18B illustrates a seal bar in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 18C illustrates another seal bar in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 19 illustrates another sealing process in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 20 illustrates a schematic diagram of another bag manufacturing process in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention;

FIG. 21 illustrates a schematic diagram of yet another bag manufacturing process in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention; and

FIG. 22 illustrates a schematic diagram of still another bag manufacturing process in accordance with one or more implementations of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more implementations of the present invention include films and bags with a unique appearance and visually-distinct regions. In particular, the appearance of the films can provide multi-layers films with a unique metallic or other appearance that differs from the appearance of the individual layers alone. The films can be non-continuously bonded together and have regions in which the layers are in intimate contact. Such regions can be visually distinct from the other areas of the film in which the layers are not in intimate contact. The visually-distinct regions can provide a visual cue to the consumer about the strength and quality of the film. Furthermore, the visually-distinct regions can provide a unique and pleasing visual effect.

In particular, one or more implementations include a multi-layer film with a first layer that is incrementally stretched and has a first color, transparency, or translucency. The first layer is non-continuously bonded to a second layer such that the films are intermittently in contact with each other. The second layer has a second color, transparency, or translucency that differs from the first color, transparency, or translucency. One or more of the spacing between the films, the texture provided by the incremental stretching of the first layer, and the combination of the first color, transparency, or translucency and the second color, transparency, or translucency can provide the structure with an unexpected appearance that differs from an appearance of the individual layers. For example, the multi-layer film can appear to be a color other than a color of the first layer or the second layer. For example, the multi-layer film can have color that differs from the color of both the first film and the second film.

In one or more embodiments, the first layer can comprise a transparent layer and the second layer can comprise a pigmented layer (and in particular a non-metallic pigment). In such embodiments, the multi-layer film can have a metallic appearance despite the lack of any metallic pigment. In another embodiment, the first layer can comprise a layer lightly pigmented with a first color and the second layer can comprise a layer pigmented with a second color (that differs from the first color). In such embodiments, the multi-layer film can have an appearance of a third color despite the lack of any pigment of the third color. In one or more embodiments, the third color is a lighter color than the color of the second layer.

One or more implementations can further include bringing portions of the substantially un-pigmented or lightly pigmented first layer into intimate or direct contact with the pigmented under layer. Bringing the under and first layers into direct contact can cause an appearance or color change to the areas or regions in intimate contact. In particular, the areas of intimate contact can lose the unique appearance and instead have the color of the first or the second layer. Thus, one or more implementations involve creating visually-distinct regions by bringing the first and second layers into intimate contact.

One will appreciate in light of the disclosure here that the first and second layers of the multi-layer film with the unexpected appearance can be brought into intimate contact with each other using various different techniques. In particular, one or more implementations involve heat-sealing the layers of the multi-layer film with the unexpected appearance together. The heat-seals can create intimate contact between the first layer and the second layer causing the heat-sealed area to take on the visual characteristics one of the first or second layers. Thus, rather than having the unexpected appearance (for example, a metallic appearance), the heat-sealed areas can appear the color of the first layer or the second layer.

In order to emphasize such visually-distinct areas, one or more embodiments can involve forming wide heat seals. Wide heat seals can comprise heat seals with a width of at least 1/16th of an inch. The increased width of the heat seals can increase the size, and thus, the visual effects of the visually-distinct heat seals.

Additionally, or alternatively, one or more implementations can involve bringing the first and second layers of the multi-layer film with the unexpected appearance into intimate contact with each other via ring rolling, a structural elastic like film (SELF) process, embossing, or other methods. One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that a manufacturer can provide a film or a bag with any number of patterns of visually-distinct regions. Consumers can associate the visually-distinct regions with improved properties or strength. For example, the visually-distinct regions can indicate that those regions have undergone a transformation to impart a desirable characteristic to that region (e.g., increased strength). Thus, the visually-distinct regions can serve to notify a consumer that the multi-layered thermoplastic film has been processed to improve the film.

In one or more implementations, the combined layers of the multi-layered bag may use less material than a conventional bag, but nonetheless have maintained or increased strength parameters provided by the layers of the bag working in concert with each other. In particular, in one or more implementations the layers of the multi-layered bag are thinner and/or stretched to reduce the amount of thermoplastic material to form a bag of a given size. For instance, one or more layers of the multi-layered bag can be continuously stretched or incrementally stretched to thin the layer and/or increase or otherwise modify the strength parameters of the layers.

In addition to allowing the creation of visually-distinct regions, discontinuous bonding can also enhance the strength and other properties of the film. In particular, one or more implementations provide for forming bonds between adjacent layers of a multi-layer film that are relatively light such that forces acting on the multi-layer film are first absorbed by breaking the bonds rather than or prior to tearing or otherwise causing the failure of the layers of the multi-layer film. Such implementations can provide an overall thinner film employing a reduced amount of raw material that nonetheless has maintained or increased strength parameters. Alternatively, such implementations can use a given amount of raw material and provide a film with increased strength parameters.

In particular, the light bonds or bond regions of adjacent layers of multi-layer films in accordance with one or more implementations can act to first absorb forces via breaking of the bonds prior to allowing that same force to cause failure of the individual layers of the multi-layer film. Such action can provide increased strength to the multi-layer film. In one or more implementations, the light bonds or bond regions include a bond strength that is advantageously less than a weakest tear resistance of each of the individual films so as to cause the bonds to fail prior to failing of the film layers. Indeed, one or more implementations include bonds that the release just prior to any localized tearing of the layers of the multi-layer film.

Thus, in one or more implementations, the light bonds or bond regions of a multi-layer film can fail before either of the individual layers undergoes molecular-level deformation. For example, an applied strain can pull the light bonds or bond regions apart prior to any molecular-level deformation (stretching, tearing, puncturing, etc.) of the individual film layers. In other words, the light bonds or bond regions can provide less resistive force to an applied strain than molecular-level deformation of any of the layers of the multi-layer film. The inventors have surprisingly found that such a configuration of light bonding can provide increased strength properties to the multi-layer film as compared to a monolayer film of equal thickness or a multi-layer film in which the plurality of layers are tightly bonded together (e.g., coextruded).

One or more implementations of the present invention provide for tailoring the bonds or bond regions between layers of a multi-layer film to ensure light bonding and associated increased strength. For example, one or more implementations include modifying or tailoring one or more of a bond strength, bond density, bond pattern, or bond size between adjacent layers of a multi-layer film to deliver a film with strength characteristics better than or equal to the sum of the strength characteristics of the individual layers. Such bond tailoring can allow for multi-layer films at a lower basis weight (amount of raw material) to perform the same as or better than higher basis weight mono-layer or co-extruded films.

Relatively weak bonding and stretching of the two or more layers of the multi-layer film can be accomplished simultaneously through one or more suitable techniques. For example, bonding and stretching may be achieved by pressure (for example MD ring rolling, TD ring rolling, DD ring rolling, stainable network lamination, or embossing), or with a combination of heat and pressure. Alternately, a manufacturer can first stretch the films and then bond the films using one or more bonding techniques. For example, one or more implementations can include ultrasonic bonding to lightly laminate the film layers. Alternately or additionally, adhesives can laminate the films. Treatment with a Corona discharge can enhance any of the above methods. In one or more embodiments, the contacting surfaces/layers can comprise a tacky material to facilitate lamination. Prior to lamination, the separate layers can be flat film or can be subject to separate processes, such as stretching, slitting, coating and printing, and corona treatment.

As used herein, the terms “lamination,” “laminate,” and “laminated film,” refer to the process and resulting product made by bonding together two or more layers of film or other material. The term “bonding”, when used in reference to bonding of multiple layers of a multi-layer film, may be used interchangeably with “lamination” of the layers. According to methods of the present invention, adjacent layers of a multi-layer film are laminated or bonded to one another. The bonding purposely results in a relatively weak bond between the layers that has a bond strength that is less than the strength of the weakest layer of the film. This allows the lamination bonds to fail before the film layer, and thus the film, fails.

The term laminate is also inclusive of coextruded multilayer films comprising one or more tie layers. As a verb, “laminate” means to affix or adhere (by means of, for example, adhesive bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, corona lamination, heat lamination, and the like) two or more separately made film articles to one another so as to form a multi-layer structure. As a noun, “laminate” means a product produced by the affixing or adhering just described.

In one or more implementations, the light lamination or bonding between layers of a multi-layer film may be non-continuous (i.e., discontinuous or partial discontinuous). As used herein the terms “discontinuous bonding” or “discontinuous lamination” refers to lamination of two or more layers where the lamination is not continuous in the machine direction and not continuous in the transverse direction. More particularly, discontinuous lamination refers to lamination of two or more layers with repeating bonded patterns broken up by repeating un-bonded areas in both the machine direction and the transverse direction of the film.

As used herein the terms “partially discontinuous bonding” or “partially discontinuous lamination” refers to lamination of two or more layers where the lamination is substantially continuous in the machine direction or in the transverse direction, but not continuous in the other of the machine direction or the transverse direction. Alternately, partially discontinuous lamination refers to lamination of two or more layers where the lamination is substantially continuous in the width of the article but not continuous in the height of the article, or substantially continuous in the height of the article but not continuous in the width of the article. More particularly, partially discontinuous lamination refers to lamination of two or more layers with repeating bonded patterns broken up by repeating unbounded areas in either the machine direction, the transverse direction, or both. Both partially discontinuous and discontinuous are types of non-continuous bonding (i.e., bonding that is not complete and continuous between two surfaces).

As used herein, the term “substantially un-pigmented” refers to a thermoplastic ply or plies that are substantially free of a significant amount of pigment such that the ply is substantially transparent or translucent. For example, a “substantially un-pigmented” film can have a pigment concentration (i.e., percent of total composition of the film) that is between 0% by weight and 2% by weight. In some embodiments, a “substantially un-pigmented” film can have a pigment concentration between about 0% by weight and about 1% by weight. In further embodiments, a “substantially un-pigmented” film can have a pigment concentration between about 0% by weight and about 0.75% by weight. As used herein, the term “pigmented” refers to a thermoplastic ply or plies that are pigmented such that the ply has a pigment concentration over 3% by weight or is otherwise substantially opaque.

As used herein, the term “lightly pigmented” refers to a thermoplastic ply or plies that are pigmented such that the when placed into intimate contact with a pigmented film produces an unexpected appearance that differs from an appearance (e.g., colors) of the individual layers. If a film has too much pigment, when placed into intimate contact with another pigmented film, an unexpected appearance will not be produced. The amount of pigment in a lightly pigmented film that will produce the unexpected appearance can be dictated by the thickness of the film. Table A included below shows acceptable ranges of pigments for various film gauges that produce lightly pigmented films. The pigment concentrations included are percent weight (e.g., a percent of the total weight of the film).

TABLE A Pigment Concentration Gauge Target Low High (Mils) (%) (%) (%) 0.250 6.57 5.25 8.21 0.275 5.97 4.78 7.46 0.300 5.47 4.38 6.84 0.325 5.05 4.04 6.31 0.350 4.69 3.75 5.86 0.375 4.38 3.50 5.47 0.400 4.10 3.28 5.13 0.425 3.86 3.09 4.83 0.450 3.65 2.92 4.56 0.475 3.46 2.76 4.32 0.500 3.28 2.63 4.10 0.525 3.13 2.50 3.91 0.550 2.98 2.39 3.73 0.575 2.85 2.28 3.57 0.600 2.74 2.19 3.42 0.625 2.63 2.10 3.28 0.650 2.53 2.02 3.16 0.675 2.43 1.95 3.04 0.700 2.35 1.88 2.93 0.725 2.26 1.81 2.83 0.750 2.19 1.75 2.74 0.775 2.12 1.69 2.65 0.800 2.05 1.64 2.57 0.825 1.99 1.59 2.49 0.850 1.93 1.55 2.41 0.875 1.88 1.50 2.35 0.900 1.82 1.46 2.28

A pigmented film can comprise a lightly pigmented film or a film with a greater percentage of pigment than a lightly pigmented film. As mentioned above, in one or more embodiments, a first layer is substantially un-pigmented or lightly pigmented and the a second layer is pigmented. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the second layer has a greater percentage of pigment than the first layer. Alternatively, the first and second layers have the same percentage of pigment but the first layer comprises a lighter pigment than the second layer.

As used herein, the term “pigment or pigments” are solids of an organic and inorganic nature which are defined as such when they are used within a system and incorporated into the thermoplastic, absorbing part of the light and reflecting the complementary part thereof which forms the color of the thermoplastic ply. Representative, but not limiting, examples of suitable pigments include inorganic colored pigments such as such as iron oxide, in all their shades of yellow, brown, red and black; and in all their physical forms and particle-size categories, chromium oxide pigments, also co-precipitated with nickel and nickel titanates, blue and green pigments derived from copper phthalocyanine, also chlorinated and brominated in the various alpha, beta and epsilon crystalline forms, yellow pigments derived from lead sulphochromate, yellow pigments derived from lead bismuth vanadate, orange pigments derived from lead sulphochromate molybdate lead oxide, cadmium sulfide, cadmium selenide, lead chromate, zinc chromate, nickel titanate, and the like. For the purposes of the present invention, the term “organic pigment” comprises also black pigments resulting from organic combustion (so-called “carbon black”). Organic colored pigments include yellow pigments of an organic nature based on arylamides, orange pigments of an organic nature based on naphthol, orange pigments of an organic nature based on diketo-pyrrolo-pyrole, red pigments based on manganese salts of azo dyes, red pigments based on manganese salts of beta-oxynaphthoic acid, red organic quinacridone pigments, and red organic anthraquinone pigments. Organic colored pigments include azo and diazo pigments, phthalocyanines, quinacridone pigments, perylene pigments, isoindolinone, anthraquinones, thioindigo, solvent dyes and the like.

Pigments can be light reflecting (e.g., white pigments) or light absorbing (e.g., black pigments). Examples of pigments suitable for one or more implementations include titanium dioxide, Antimony Oxide, Zinc Oxide, White Lead, Lithopone, Clay, Magnesium Silicate, Barytes (BaSO4), and Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3).

Film Materials

As an initial matter, the thermoplastic material of the films of one or more implementations can include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic polyolefins, including polyethylene and copolymers thereof and polypropylene and copolymers thereof. The olefin based polymers can include the most common ethylene or propylene based polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and copolymers such as ethylene vinylacetate (EVA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA) and ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), or blends of such polyolefins.

Other examples of polymers suitable for use as films in accordance with the present invention include elastomeric polymers. Suitable elastomeric polymers may also be biodegradable or environmentally degradable. Suitable elastomeric polymers for the film include poly(ethylene-butene), poly(ethylene-hexene), poly(ethylene-octene), poly(ethylene-propylene), poly(styrene-butadiene-styrene), poly(styrene-isoprene-styrene), poly(styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene), poly(ester-ether), poly(ether-amide), poly(ethylene-vinylacetate), poly(ethylene-methylacrylate), poly(ethylene-acrylic acid), poly(ethylene butylacrylate), polyurethane, poly(ethylene-propylene-diene), ethylene-propylene rubber.

The examples and description herein below refer to films formed from linear low-density polyethylene. The term “linear low-density polyethylene” (LLDPE) as used herein is defined to mean a copolymer of ethylene and a minor amount of an olefin containing 4 to 10 carbon atoms, having a density of from about 0.910 to about 0.926, and a melt index (MI) of from about 0.5 to about 10. For example, some examples herein use an octene comonomer, solution phase LLDPE (MI=1.1; ρ=0.920). Additionally, other examples use a gas phase LLDPE, which is a hexene gas phase LLDPE formulated with slip/AB (MI=1.0; ρ=0.920). Still further examples use a gas phase LLDPE, which is a hexene gas phase LLDPE formulated with slip/AB (MI=1.0; ρ=0.926). One will appreciate that the present invention is not limited to LLDPE, and can include “high density polyethylene” (HDPE), “low density polyethylene” (LDPE), and “very low density polyethylene” (VLDPE). Indeed films made from any of the previously mentioned thermoplastic materials or combinations thereof can be suitable for use with the present invention.

Indeed, implementations of the present invention can include any flexible or pliable thermoplastic material that may be formed or drawn into a web or film. Furthermore, the thermoplastic materials may include a single layer or multiple layers. The thermoplastic material may be opaque, transparent, translucent, or tinted. Furthermore, the thermoplastic material may be gas permeable or impermeable.

As used herein, the term “flexible” refers to materials that are capable of being flexed or bent, especially repeatedly, such that they are pliant and yieldable in response to externally applied forces. Accordingly, “flexible” is substantially opposite in meaning to the terms inflexible, rigid, or unyielding. Materials and structures that are flexible, therefore, may be altered in shape and structure to accommodate external forces and to conform to the shape of objects brought into contact with them without losing their integrity. In accordance with further prior art materials, web materials are provided which exhibit an “elastic-like” behavior in the direction of applied strain without the use of added traditional elastic. As used herein, the term “elastic-like” describes the behavior of web materials which when subjected to an applied strain, the web materials extend in the direction of applied strain, and when the applied strain is released the web materials return, to a degree, to their pre-strained condition.

In addition to a thermoplastic material, films of one or more implementations of the present invention can also include one or more additives. Additional additives that may be included in one or more embodiments include slip agents, anti-block agents, voiding agents, or tackifiers. Additionally, one or more implementations of the present invention include films that are devoid of voiding agents. Some examples of inorganic voiding agents include calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, barium carbonate, calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, barium sulfate, calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, titanium oxide, zinc oxide, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, talc, clay, silica, alumina, mica, glass powder, starch, etc. Some examples of organic voiding agents for polyethylene (PE) include polystyrene and other polymers incompatible with PE and having the proper viscosity ratio relative to PE.

One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that manufacturers may form the films or webs to be used with one or more implementations of the present invention using a wide variety of techniques. For example, a manufacturer can form precursor mix of the thermoplastic material and one or more additives. The manufacturer can then form the film(s) from the precursor mix using conventional flat or cast extrusion or coextrusion to produce monolayer, bilayer, or multilayer films. Alternatively, a manufacturer can form the films using suitable processes, such as, a blown film process to produce monolayer, bilayer, or multilayer films. If desired for a given end use, the manufacturer can orient the films by trapped bubble, tenterframe, or other suitable process. Additionally, the manufacturer can optionally anneal the films thereafter.

An optional part of the film-making process is a procedure known as “orientation.” The orientation of a polymer is a reference to its molecular organization, i.e., the orientation of molecules relative to each other. Similarly, the process of orientation is the process by which directionality (orientation) is imposed upon the polymeric arrangements in the film. The process of orientation is employed to impart desirable properties to films, including making cast films tougher (higher tensile properties). Depending on whether the film is made by casting as a flat film or by blowing as a tubular film, the orientation process can require different procedures. This is related to the different physical characteristics possessed by films made by the two-conventional film-making processes; casting and blowing. Generally, blown films tend to have greater stiffness and toughness. By contrast, cast films usually have the advantages of greater film clarity and uniformity of thickness and flatness, generally permitting use of a wider range of polymers and producing a higher quality film.

When a film has been stretched in a single direction (monoaxial orientation), the resulting film can exhibit strength and stiffness along the direction of stretch, but can be weak in the other direction, i.e., across the stretch, often splitting when flexed or pulled. To overcome this limitation, two-way or biaxial orientation can be employed to more evenly distribute the strength qualities of the film in two directions. Most biaxial orientation processes use apparatus that stretches the film sequentially, first in one direction and then in the other.

In one or more implementations, one or more films of the present invention are blown film, or cast film. Blown film and cast film is formed by extrusion. The extruder used can be a conventional one using a die, which will provide the desired gauge. Some useful extruders are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,814,135; 4,857,600; 5,076,988; 5,153,382; each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Examples of various extruders, which can be used in producing the films to be used with the present invention, can be a single screw type modified with a blown film die, an air ring, and continuous take off equipment.

In one or more implementations, a manufacturer can use multiple extruders to supply different melt streams, which a feed block can order into different channels of a multi-channel die. The multiple extruders can allow a manufacturer to form a multi-layered film with layers having different compositions. Such multi-layer film may later be non-continuously laminated with another layer of film to provide one or more benefits of the present invention.

In a blown film process, the die can be an upright cylinder with a circular opening. Rollers can pull molten plastic upward away from the die. An air-ring can cool the film as the film travels upwards. An air outlet can force compressed air into the center of the extruded circular profile, creating a bubble. The air can expand the extruded circular cross section by a multiple of the die diameter. This ratio is called the “blow-up ratio.” When using a blown film process, the manufacturer can collapse the film to double the plies of the film. Alternatively, the manufacturer can cut and fold the film, or cut and leave the film unfolded.

In any event, in one or more embodiments, the extrusion process can orient the polymer chains of the blown film. The “orientation” of a polymer is a reference to its molecular organization, i.e., the orientation of molecules or polymer chains relative to each other. In particular, the extrusion process can cause the polymer chains of the blown film to be predominantly oriented in the machine direction. As used herein predominately oriented in a particular direction means that the polymer chains are more oriented in the particular direction than another direction. One will appreciate, however, that a film that is predominately oriented in a particular direction can still include polymer chains oriented in directions other than the particular direction. Thus, in one or more embodiments the initial or starting films (films before being stretched or bonded or laminated in accordance with the principles described herein) can comprise a blown film that is predominately oriented in the machine direction.

The process of blowing up the tubular stock or bubble can further orient the polymer chains of the blown film. In particular, the blow-up process can cause the polymer chains of the blown film to be bi-axially oriented. Despite being bi-axially oriented, in one or more embodiments the polymer chains of the blown film are predominantly oriented in the machine direction (i.e., oriented more in the machine direction than the transverse direction).

The films of one or more implementations of the present invention can have a starting gauge between about 0.1 mils to about 20 mils, suitably from about 0.2 mils to about 4 mils, suitably in the range of about 0.3 mils to about 2 mils, suitably from about 0.6 mils to about 1.25 mils, suitably from about 0.9 mils to about 1.1 mils, suitably from about 0.3 mils to about 0.7 mils, and suitably from about 0.35 mils and about 0.6 mils. Additionally, the starting gauge of films of one or more implementations of the present invention may not be uniform. Thus, the starting gauge of films of one or more implementations of the present invention may vary along the length and/or width of the film.

As an initial matter, one or more layers of the films described herein can comprise any flexible or pliable material comprising a thermoplastic material and that can be formed or drawn into a web or film. As described above, the film includes a plurality of layers of thermoplastic films. Each individual film layer may itself include a single layer or multiple layers. In other words, the individual layers of the multi-layer film may each themselves comprise a plurality of laminated layers. Such layers may be significantly more tightly bonded together than the bonding provided by the purposely weak discontinuous bonding in the finished multi-layer film. Both tight and relatively weak lamination can be accomplished by joining layers by mechanical pressure, joining layers with adhesives, joining with heat and pressure, spread coating, extrusion coating, and combinations thereof. Adjacent sub-layers of an individual layer may be coextruded. Coextrusion results in tight bonding so that the bond strength is greater than the tear resistance of the resulting laminate (i.e., rather than allowing adjacent layers to be peeled apart through breakage of the lamination bonds, the film will tear).

FIG. 1A illustrates a film ply 10 a of a single layer 11. In another implementation, as illustrated by FIG. 1B, a film ply 10 b can have two layers (i.e., a bi-layered film). In particular, the film ply 10 b can include a first layer 11 a and a second layer 11 b. The first and second layers 11 a, 11 b can optionally include different grades of thermoplastic material or include different additives, including polymer additives. In still another implementation, shown in FIG. 1C, a film ply 10 c can include three layers (i.e., a tri-layered film). For example, FIG. 1C illustrates that the film 10 c can include a first layer 11 c, a second layer 11 d, and a third layer 11 e.

In one example, the film 10 a can comprise a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, colored film containing 4.8% pigment that appears a first color. In an alternative embodiment, the film 10 a can comprise a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-pigmented film that appears clear or substantially clear. In still further embodiments, the film 10 a can comprise a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, pigmented film that appears a second color.

In at least one implementation, such as shown in FIG. 1C, a multilayered film 10 c can include co-extruded layers. For example, the film 10 c can include a three-layer B:A:B structure, where the ratio of layers can be 20:60:20. The exterior B layers (i.e., 11 c, 11 e) can comprise a mixture of hexene LLDPE of density 0.918, and metallocene LLDPE of density 0.920. The interior A core layer (11 d) can comprise a mixture of hexene LLDPE of density 0.918, butene LLDPE of density 0.918, reclaimed resin from trash bags. Additionally, the A core layer 11 d can include a pigment. For example, the A core layer 11 d can include a colorant in an amount between about 0.1 percent and about 6%.

In another example, the film 10 c is a coextruded three-layer B:A:B structure where the ratio of layers is 15:70:15. The B:A:B structure can also optionally have a ratio of B:A that is greater than 20:60 or less than 15:70. In one or more implementations, the LLDPE can comprise greater than 50% of the overall thermoplastic material in the film 10 c.

In another example, the film 10 c is a coextruded three-layer C:A:B structure where the ratio of layers is 20:60:20. The C layer 11 c can comprise a LLDPE material with a first colorant (e.g., black). The B layer 11 e can also comprise a LLDPE material with a second colorant (e.g., white). The LLDPE material can have a MI of 1.0 and density of 0.920 g/cm3. The A core layer 11 d can comprise similar materials to any of the core layer describe above. The A core layer 11 d can comprise a black colorant, a white colorant, or can be clear.

In still further embodiments, the multi-layer film can comprise any number of co-extruded layers. More particularly in one or more embodiments, the multi-layer film can comprise any number of co-extruded layers so long as the A and B layers do not alternate such that the A layers are on one side and the B layers are on the other side. In still further embodiments, the multi-layer film can comprise one or more co-extruded layers between the A and B layers. For example, the multi-layer film can comprise clear or transparent layers between the A and B layer(s). In still further embodiments, the multi-layer film can comprise intermittent layers of different colors in addition to the A and B layer(s).

In any event, one or more implementations involve forming a multi-layer film with a metallic or color that is distinct from the color and appearance of the individual layers of the multi-layer film. For example, a pigmented first layer can have a black appearance while the second layer has a clear or transparent appearance. When combined to form a multi-layer film in accordance the principles described herein, the resultant multi-layer film can have a metallic, silvery metallic or light grey color rather than a black appearance or color as would be expected. Once such a multi-layer film with a unique appearance is formed, one or more implementations of the present invention involve bringing regions or areas of the two layers into intimate contact with each other to create visually-distinct regions that have the color or appearance of the pigmented layer. For example, a multi-layer film with a black first layer and a transparent second layer can have a silver metallic appearance and black visually-distinct regions where the two films are in intimate contact with each other.

In another example, a pigmented first layer can have a black appearance while the second pigmented layer has a white appearance. When combined to form a multi-layer film in accordance the principles described herein, the resultant multi-layer film can have a light grey color rather than a black or white appearance or color as would be expected. Once such a multi-layer film with a unique appearance is formed, one or more implementations of the present invention involve bringing regions or areas of the two layers into intimate contact with each other to create visually-distinct regions that have the color or appearance of the black pigmented layer or a dark grey appearance. For example, a multi-layer film with a black first layer and a white second layer can have a light grey appearance and black or dark grey visually-distinct regions where the two films are in intimate contact with each other. In one or more embodiment, the amount of pigment in the first layer can determine whether the portions in intimate contact have a black color or a dark grey color.

In one or more embodiments, the first layer comprises a light colorant while the second layer comprises a dark colorant. As used herein a light colorant is a color with a brightness closer to the brightness of white than the brightness of black. As used herein a dark colorant is a color with a brightness closer to the brightness of black than the brightness of white. In one or more embodiments, the first layer has a concentration of light colorant between about 1% by mass and about 15% by mass. More particularly, in one or more embodiments, the first layer has a concentration of light colorant between about 2% by mass and about 12% by mass. In still further embodiments, the first layer has a concentration of light colorant between about 5% by mass and about 10% by mass.

In one or more embodiments, the second layer has a concentration of dark colorant between about 1% by mass and about 15% by mass. More particularly, in one or more embodiments, the second layer has a concentration of dark colorant between about 2% by mass and about 12% by mass. In still further embodiments, the second layer has a concentration of dark colorant between about 5% by mass and about 10% by mass.

One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that the methods of bringing the layers of the multi-layer film together to form visually-distinct areas can be performed as part of the process of forming the multi-layer film or as additional acts. For example, the process of discontinuously bonding the layers of a pigmented and an adjacent un-pigmented layer can act to both form the multi-layer film with a unique appearance and simultaneously create visually-distinct regions. In particular, a ring rolling, SELFing, embossing, or other discontinuous bonding process can both bond the pigmented and adjacent un-pigmented layer together and create visually-distinct regions.

Alternatively, once a multi-layer film with a unique appearance is created, additional processing steps can be performed to form the visually-distinct regions. For example, a manufacturer can perform a ring rolling, SELFing, embossing, heat sealing, or other process on a multi-layer film with a unique appearance to create visually-distinct areas that have the color or appearance of the pigmented layer. One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that one or more implementations of the present invention can involve any number of variations or combinations of acts and processes to form a multi-layer film with a unique appearance and visually-distinct areas or regions.

One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that black and white are used as exemplary colors for ease in explanation. In alternative embodiments, the films can comprise other color combinations such as white over blue, yellow over blue, red over blue, etc.

In any event, a multi-layer film with a unique appearance can comprise a film with an un-pigmented and incrementally-stretched first layer that is discontinuously bonded to a pigmented under layer. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates one example of a multi-layer film 13 with unique appearance. The multi-layer film 13 includes a first layer 10 and second layer 10′. Each of the layers can comprise any of the films 10 a-10 c described above or a film with more than three layers.

In any event, the first layer 10 can be un-pigmented such that the film is clear or transparent. The first layer 10 can further be incrementally stretched. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates that the first layer 10 includes alternating series of stretched (or more stretched) regions or thinner webs 46 adjacent to un-stretched regions (or less stretched) or thicker ribs 44. As explained in greater detail below, the manufacturer can incrementally stretch the first layer 10 using one or more of ring rolling or SELFing.

FIG. 2 further illustrates that the first layer 10 of the multi-layer film 13 is discontinuously bonded to the second layer 10′. In particular, the multi-layer film 13 can include bonded regions or bonds 49 and un-bonded regions 47. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates that the film layers 10, 10′ of the multi-layer film 13 are laminated together at the thicker ribs 44 while the stretched (i.e., thinner) regions 46 may not be laminated together. In particular, a gap 47 or un-bonded region can separate the film layers 10, 10′.

As explained previously, the configuration of the multi-layer film 13 can provide the multi-layer film 13 with a metallic, gray, silvery, or other unexpected appearance when viewing the first layer 10. The unexpected appearance is un-expected as typically viewing a pigmented film through a clear or transparent film would appear as the color of the pigment rather than having a different color or appearance. Similarly, the unexpected appearance is un-expected as typically viewing a pigmented film would appear as the color of the pigment rather than having a different color or appearance.

As shown by FIG. 2, the bonded regions 49 can comprise areas in which the first layer 10′ is in direct or intimate contact with the second layer 10′. As such, the bonded regions 49 can be visually distinct from the rest of the multi-layer film. In other words, because the first film 10 is directly abutted against the second film 10′, the bonded regions can have the color or appearance of the second film 10′. Thus, when the second film 10′ is a black film, the bonded regions 49 can appear black with the unbounded regions 47 (i.e., the thinner webs 46 and transitions between the bonds 49 and the thinner webs) can appear metallic, grey, or another unexpected appearance.

FIG. 2 illustrates that the bonded regions 49 are aligned with and co-extensive with the thicker ribs 44. One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that the present invention is not so limited. For example, in alternative embodiments the bonds or bonded regions 49 are aligned with but not co-extensive with the thicker ribs 44. In still further embodiments, the bonds or bonded regions 49 may cross or otherwise interface with the thicker ribs 44 but may not be aligned with or co-expensive with the thicker ribs. In yet further embodiments, the bonds or bonded regions 49 may not interface with the thicker ribs 44.

As previously mentioned, according to one implementation of the invention, the separate layers are non-continuously bonded to one another and incrementally stretched to form a multi-layer film 13 as described above in relation to FIG. 2. FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate exemplary processes of partially discontinuously bonding adjacent layers 15 in accordance with an implementation of the present invention to create a multi-layer film 13. In particular, FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate an MD ring rolling process that partially discontinuously laminates individual adjacent layers 15 by passing the layers through a pair of MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14. As a result of MD ring rolling, the multi-layered film 13 is also intermittently stretched in the machine direction MD.

As shown by the FIGS. 3A-3B, the first roller 12 and the second roller 14 can each have a generally cylindrical shape. The MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 may be made of cast and/or machined metal, such as, steel, aluminum, or any other suitable material. The MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 can rotate in opposite directions about parallel axes of rotation. For example, FIG. 3A illustrates that the first roller 12 can rotate about a first axis 16 of rotation in a counterclockwise direction 18. FIG. 3A also illustrates that the second roller 14 can rotate about a second axis 20 of rotation in a clockwise direction 22. The axes of rotation 16, 20 can be parallel to the transverse direction TD and perpendicular to the machine direction MD.

The intermeshing rollers 12, 14 can closely resemble fine pitch spur gears. In particular, the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 can include a plurality of protruding ridges 24, 26. The ridges 24, 26 can extend along the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 in a direction generally parallel to axes of rotation 16, 20 and perpendicular to the machine direction of the film 13 passing through the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14. Furthermore, the ridges 24, 26 can extend generally radially outward from the axes of rotation 16, 20. The tips of ridges 24, 26 can have a variety of different shapes and configurations. For example, the tips of the ridges 24, 26 can have a rounded shape as shown in FIG. 3B. In alternative implementations, the tips of the ridges 24, 26 can have sharp angled corners. FIGS. 3A-3B also illustrate that grooves 28, 30 can separate adjacent ridges 24, 26.

The ridges 24 on the first roller 12 can be offset or staggered with respect to the ridges 26 on the second roller 14. Thus, the grooves 28 of the first roller 12 can receive the ridges 26 of the second roller 14, as the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 intermesh. Similarly, the grooves 30 of the second roller 14 can receive the ridges 24 of the first roller 12.

One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that the configuration of the ridges 24, 26 and grooves 28, 30 can prevent contact between ridges 24, 26 during intermeshing so that no rotational torque is transmitted during operation. Additionally, the configuration of the ridges 24, 26 and grooves 28, 30 can affect the amount of stretching and the bond strength resulting from partially discontinuous lamination as the film layers 15 pass through MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14.

Referring specifically to FIG. 3B, various features of the ridges 24, 26 and grooves 28, 30 are shown in greater detail. The pitch and depth of engagement of the ridges 24, 26 can determine, at least in part, the amount of incremental stretching and partially discontinuous lamination caused by the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14. As shown by FIG. 3B, the pitch 32 is the distance between the tips of two adjacent ridges on the same roller. The “depth of engagement” (“DOE”) 34 is the amount of overlap between ridges 24, 26 of the different MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 during intermeshing.

The ratio of DOE 34 to pitch 32 can determine, at least in part, the bond strength provided by the partially discontinuous bonding. According to one embodiment, the ratio of DOE to pitch provided by any ring rolling operation is less than about 1.1:1, suitably less than about 1.0:1, suitably between about 0.5:1 and about 1.0:1, or suitably between about 0.8:1 and about 0.9:1.

As shown by FIG. 3A, the direction of travel of the film layers 15 through the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 is parallel to the machine direction and perpendicular to the transverse direction. As the thermoplastic film layers 15 pass between the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14, the ridges 24, 26 can incrementally stretch the film layers 15 in the machine direction. In one or more implementations, stretching the film layers 15 in the machine direction can reduce the gauge of the film and increase the length of the film layers 15. In other implementations, the film layers 15 may rebound after stretching such that the gauge of the film layers 15 are not decreased (e.g., the same or larger gauge). Furthermore, in one or more implementations, stretching the film layers 15 in the machine direction can reduce the width of the film layers 15. For example, as film layers 15 are lengthened in the machine direction, the length of the film layers 15 can be reduced in the transverse direction.

In particular, as the film layers 15 proceed between the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14, the ridges 24 of the first roller 12 can push the film layers 15 into the grooves 30 of the second roller 14 and vice versa. The pulling of the film layers 15 by the ridges 24, 26 can stretch the film layers 15. The MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 may not stretch the film layers 15 evenly along their length. Specifically, the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 can stretch the portions of the film layers 15 between the ridges 24, 26 more than the portions of the film layers 15 that contact the ridges 24, 26. Thus, the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 can impart or form a generally striped pattern 36 into the film layers 15. As used herein, the terms “impart” and “form” refer to the creation of a desired structure or geometry in a film upon stretching the film that will at least partially retain the desired structure or geometry when the film is no longer subject to any strains or externally applied forces.

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate that the film layers 15 (i.e., the films that are yet to pass through the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14) can have a substantially flat top surface 38 and substantially flat bottom surface 40. As seen in FIG. 3B, the multi-layer film 13 may comprise two layers 10 and 10′ that are initially separate from one another. The film layers 15 can have an initial thickness or starting gauge 42 (i.e., the sum of 42 a and 42 b) extending between its major surfaces (i.e., the top surface 38 and the bottom surface 40). In at least one implementation, the starting gauge 42, as well as the gauge 42 a, 42 b of individual layers 10 and 10′ can be substantially uniform along the length of the film layers 15. Because the contacting surfaces of each layer 10 and 10′ are somewhat tacky, the layers become lightly bonded together as they are pulled through and stretched by MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14. Those areas that are un-stretched or stretched less become bonded together.

In one or more implementations, the film layers 15 need not have an entirely flat top surface 38, but may be rough or uneven. Similarly, the bottom surface 40 or the second oriented surfaces of layers 10 and 10′ of the film layers 15 can also be rough or uneven. Further, the starting gauge 42, 42 a, and 42 b need not be consistent or uniform throughout the entirety of film layers 15. Thus, the starting gauge 42, 42 a, and 42 b can vary due to product design, manufacturing defects, tolerances, or other processing issues. According to one embodiment, one or more of the individual layers 10 and 10′ may be pre-stretched (e.g., through MD ring rolling, TD ring rolling, etc.) before being positioned adjacent to the other layer (10′ or 10, respectively). Such pre-stretching of individual layers can result in a striped surface exhibiting an uneven top and bottom surface similar to that seen in FIG. 2.

FIG. 3B illustrates that film layers 15, can include two initially separate film layers 10, 10′. In an alternative implementation, the film layers 15 (and thus the resultant multi-layer film 13) can include three initially separate film layers: a middle film layer and two first film layers. In other embodiments, more than three layers may be provided (four, five, six, or more partially discontinuously or discontinuously laminated layers).

As seen in FIG. 3A, upon stretching and partially discontinuously laminating the adjacent layers 15, the intermittently bonded and stretched multi-layer film 13 can include a striped pattern 36. The striped pattern 36 can include alternating series of stretched (or more stretched) regions or thinner webs 46 adjacent to un-stretched regions (or less stretched) or thicker ribs 44. FIG. 3B illustrates that the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 can incrementally stretch and partially discontinuously bond films 10, 10′ to create the multi-layer film 13 including bonded regions or bonds 49 and un-bonded regions 47. For example, FIG. 3B illustrates that the film layers 10, 10′ of the multi-layer film 13 can be laminated together at the thicker ribs 44 while the stretched (i.e., thinner) regions 46 may not be laminated together.

In addition to any compositional differences between layers 10, 10′ of a given multi-layer film, the different film layers can have differing gauges or thicknesses. In one or more implementations, the film layers may be substantially equal to one another in thickness. For example, the inventors have found that the MD or TD tear resistance of the composite, multi-layer film is typically approximately equal to the lowest MD or TD tear value of the individual layers, absent any increase in tear resistance provided by light bonding. In other words, the weakest layer often determines the strength of the multi-layer film structure.

As shown by FIG. 3B the bonded regions 49 of the multi-layer film 13 can have an average thickness or gauge 50 a. The average gauge 50 a can be approximately equal to the combined starting gauges 42 a, 42 b of the starting films. In the Figures, separation between the layers at unbounded regions 47 is exaggerated for purposes of clarity. In one or more implementations, the average gauge 50 a can be less than the combined starting gauges 42 a-42 b. The films 10, 10′ of the un-bonded regions 47 can each have an average thickness or gauge 42 c, 42 d. In one or more implementations, the average gauges 42 c, 42 d are less than the starting gauges 42 a, 42 b. Although the un-stretched regions or thicker ribs 44 of the multi-layered lightly-laminated films may be stretched to a small degree by MD intermeshing rollers 12,14 (or stretched in a separate operation), the un-stretched regions or thicker ribs 44 may be stretched significantly less compared to the stretched regions 46.

In any event, FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate that MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 can process the initially separately layered films 15 into MD incrementally-stretched multi-layer film 13. As previously mentioned, the MD incrementally-stretched multi-layer film 13 can include a striped pattern 36 where the bonding occurs along a continuous line or region along the width of the film, parallel to the TD direction. The striped pattern 36 can include alternating series of un-bonded regions 47 and bonded regions 49. The bonded regions 49 can comprise bonds between un-stretched regions or thicker ribs 44 of the films 10, 10′. In other words, the bonds of the MD incrementally-stretched multi-layer film 13 can be positioned directly between, be aligned with, and bond together un-stretched regions or thicker ribs 44. Along related lines, the un-bonded regions 47 can separate the stretched or thinner regions 46.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of the MD incrementally-stretched multi-layer film 13. As shown by FIG. 4, the multi-layer film 13 includes thicker ribs 44 bonded together to form bonded regions 49 adjacent to thinner regions 46 that form un-bonded regions 47. In addition to resulting in partially discontinuous lamination of adjacent layers, MD ring rolling the film layers 15 can increase or otherwise modify one or more of the tensile strength, tear resistance, impact resistance, or elasticity of the film layers 15, in addition to whatever additional strength is provided by the partially discontinuous, low strength bonds between adjacent layers of the film. Such bonds can be broken to absorb forces rather than such forces resulting in tearing of the film.

Furthermore, the thicker ribs 44 can include bonded stripes that extend across the film 13 in a direction transverse (i.e., transverse direction) to a direction in which the film was extruded (i.e., machine direction). As shown by FIG. 4, the bonded stripes or bonded regions 49 can extend across the entire length of the film 13. One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that the striped pattern 36 may vary depending on the method used to incrementally stretch and partially discontinuously bond adjacent layers 15. To the extent that MD or other ring rolling is used to lightly bond the film 13, the striped pattern 36 (e.g., width and spacing of the stripes or stretched regions 44) on the film 13 can depend on the pitch 32 of the ridges 24, 26, the DOE 34 (shown in FIG. 3B), and other factors. As regions 49 represent areas of the multi-layer film in which the adjacent layers are bonded to one another, it will be apparent that altering the spacing and/or width of regions 49 can affect the overall strength of the film. For example, providing more bonded surface area relative to the unbonded surface area can increase the density of such bonds that can absorb forces, increasing the film strength.

FIG. 4 further illustrates that the bonded regions 49 can be intermittently dispersed about un-bonded regions 47. In particular, each bonded region 49 can reside between adjacent un-bonded regions 47. Along related lines, each thicker rib 44 can be intermittently dispersed about stretched regions 46. The striped pattern 36 may vary depending on the method used to lightly laminate the film 13. In one or more implementations, the molecular structure of the thermoplastic material of the film multi-layered 13 may be rearranged during stretching (e.g., particularly so during cold stretching).

One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that passing the film layers 15 through the MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14 to form the multi-layer film 13 can also modify the orientation of the film. In particular, MD stretching a predominately MD oriented film can further orient the stretched regions 46 in the machine direction. Thus, the stretched regions 46 can have an MD orientation that is greater than the MD orientation of the thicker ribs 44.

Additionally, the bonded regions 49 and thicker ribs 44 can be visually distinct from the un-bonded regions 47 and thinner regions 46 as a result bring the second and first layers 10, 10′ in direct contact as described above. One will appreciate that the size of the upper surfaces of the ridges 24, 26 can dictate the visibility of any visually-distinct regions created by the MD ring rolling. For example, in one or more embodiments bonded regions 49 with a width less than 1/16th of an inch may be somewhat difficult to detect or see. As such, in one or more embodiments the upper surfaces of the ridges 24, 26 can have a width equal to or greater than about 1/16th. In particular, in one or more embodiments the upper surfaces of the ridges 24, 26 can have a width of between about 1/16th of an inch and about 1 inch.

Referring to FIG. 4, when viewing the multi-layer film 13 from the side with the lightly pigment or unpigmented layer, the dotted areas/shaded areas of the multi-layer film 13 can have a metallic, gray, or other unexpected appearance, while the non-dotted areas (in this case stripes) can have the appearance/color of pigmented second layer 10′. For example, when the pigmented film 10′ is black, the dotted areas/shaded areas can have a silvery or grey metallic appearance while the non-dotted areas have a black appearance.

MD ring rolling is one exemplary method of partially discontinuously laminating a multi-layer film. TD ring rolling is another suitable method of discontinuously or partially discontinuously laminating a film. For example, FIGS. 5A-5D illustrates a TD ring rolling process that partially discontinuously and lightly bonds adjacent layers 15 by passing the film layers 15 through a pair of TD intermeshing rollers 52, 54. In particular, FIG. 5B illustrates thermoplastic films 15 prior to passing the film through the pair of TD intermeshing rollers 52, 54. FIG. 5C illustrates the thermoplastic films 15 as the films passes through the pair of TD intermeshing rollers 52, 54. FIG. 5D illustrates a resultant multi-layer film 13 a created from the thermoplastic films 15 passing through the pair of TD intermeshing rollers 52, 54.

A TD ring rolling process (and associated TD intermeshing rollers 52, 54) can be similar to the MD ring rolling process (and associated MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14) described herein above, except that the ridges 56, 58 and grooves 60, 62 of the TD intermeshing rollers 52, 54 extend generally orthogonally to the axes of rotation 16, 20 (i.e., parallel to the MD direction). Thus, as shown by FIG. 5A, as the thermoplastic film layers 15 passes between the intermeshing rollers 52, 54, the ridges 56, 58 can incrementally stretch and lightly bond adjacent layers 15. The resultant TD incrementally-stretched and incrementally-bonded multi-layer film 13 can include a striped pattern 36 a within the with adjacent bonded and unbonded regions.

In particular, as the films 10, 10′ proceed between the TD intermeshing rollers 52, 54, the ridges 56 of the first roller 52 can push the films 10, 10′ into the grooves 62 of the second roller 54 and vice versa. The pulling of the films 10, 10′ by the ridges 56, 58 can stretch the films 10, 10′. The rollers 52, 54 may not stretch the films 10, 10′ evenly along their length. Specifically, the rollers 52, 54 can stretch the portions of the films 10, 10′ between the ridges 56, 58 more than the portions of the films 10, 10′ that contact the ridges 56, 58, or vice versa. Thus, the rollers 52, 54 can impart or form a ribbed pattern 36 a into resultant multi-layer film 13 a.

The TD intermeshing rollers 52, 54 can form thick regions or thicker ribs 44 a, thinner webs 46 a, and bonds 49 a in the films 10, 10′. In one or more implementations, the adjacent thick ribs 44 a of the films 10, 10′ can be joined by bonds 49 a. In addition to forming ribs 44 a and bonds 49 a, TD ring rolling the films 10, 10′ can increase or otherwise modify one or more of the tensile strength, tear resistance, impact resistance, or elasticity of the films 10, 10′, in addition to whatever additional strength is provided by the partially discontinuous bonds 49 a between adjacent layers.

To the extent that TD or other ring rolling is used to bond the films 10, 10′, the ribbed pattern 36 a (e.g., width and spacing of the webs 46 a, and ribs 44 a) can depend on the pitch 32 a of the ridges 56, 58, the DOE 34 a, and other factors. As portions of the films 10, 10′ including a ribbed pattern 36 a also represent areas of the multi-layer film in which the adjacent layers are non-continuously bonded to one another, it will be apparent that altering the spacing and/or width of webs 46 a and ribs 44 a can affect the overall strength of the film. For example, providing more bonded surface area relative to the unbonded surface area can increase the density of such bonds 49 a that can absorb forces, increasing the film strength.

FIG. 5D further illustrates that the bonds 49 a can bond thick linear ribs 44 a of the layers 10, 10′ together. In particular, the bonds 49 a can be coextensive and aligned with opposing thicker ribs 44 a and bond them together. FIG. 5D illustrates that the bonds 49 a can secure some, but not all, of the thick linear ribs 44 a of one layer to the thick linear ribs 44 a of an adjacent layer. In particular, FIG. 5D illustrates that bonds 49 a can secure every other thick linear rib 44 a of adjacent layers together. The un-bonded thicker ribs 44 a can form un-bonded regions 45. In alternative implementations, bonds 49 a can secure each thick linear rib 44 a of adjacent layer together.

FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of the TD incrementally-stretched and incrementally-bonded multi-layer film 13 a. As shown by FIG. 6, the multi-layer film 13 a includes thicker ribs 44 a bonded together to form bonded regions 49 a (i.e., the portions that contact the teeth when passing through the TD ring rolls as shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C). The multi-layer film 13 a also includes thicker ribs 44 a that are not bonded together to form un-bonded regions 45 a (i.e., the un-stretched portions that are between the teeth when passing through the TD ring rolls as shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C). The bonded regions 49 a can alternate with the un-bounded regions 45 a. The multi-layer film can further include thinner regions 46 a that form un-bonded regions 47 a. Similar to MD ring rolling, TD ring rolling the thermoplastic films can result in relatively light, partially discontinuous bonding of adjacent layers 10, 10′, increasing the strength of the multi-layer film 13 a.

FIG. 6 illustrates that the bonded regions 49 a can include stripes that extend across the multi-layer film 13 a in the machine direction. As shown by FIG. 6, the stripes or bonded regions 49 a can extend across the entire width of the multi-layered lightly-laminated film 15 b. In alternative implementations, bonded regions 49 a can extend across only a portion of the multi-layer film 13 a. Similar to MD ring rolling, the pitch and the DOE of the ridges 56, 58 of the intermeshing rollers 52, 54 can affect the width and spacing of the stripes or bonded regions 49 a, as well as the strength of the light bonds formed between adjacent layers, thereby affecting the overall increase in strength provided by the processing.

Additionally, the bonded regions 49 a and thicker ribs 44 a can be visually distinct from the un-bonded regions 47 a and thinner regions 46 a as a result bring the second and first layers 10, 10′ in direct contact as described above. One will appreciate that the size of the upper surfaces of the ridges 56, 58 can dictate the visibility of any visually-distinct regions created by the TD ring rolling. For example, in one or more embodiments bonded regions 49 a with a width less than 1/16th of an inch may be somewhat difficult to detect or see. As such, in one or more embodiments the upper surfaces of the ridges 56, 58 can have a width equal to or greater than about 1/16th. In particular, in one or more embodiments the upper surfaces of the ridges 56, 58 can have a width of between about 1/16th of an inch and about 1 inch. In other embodiments, the bonded regions 49 a can purposefully have a width less than 1/16th an inch.

Referring to FIG. 6, (when viewing the multi-layer film 13 a with the layer 10 as the outer layer) the dotted areas/shaded areas of the multi-layer film 13 a can have a metallic or other unexpected appearance, while the non-dotted areas (in this case stripes) can have the appearance/color of pigmented second layer 10′. For example, when the pigmented film 10′ is black, the dotted areas/shaded areas can have a silvery or grey metallic appearance while the non-dotted areas have a black appearance.

In still further implementations, one or more of the layers 10, 10′ can undergo both an MD ring rolling process and a TD ring rolling process to create the multi-layer film with a metallic appearance and optionally visually-distinct regions. For example, FIG. 7A illustrates a top view of a MD & TD incrementally-stretched and incrementally-bonded multi-layer film 13 b. The multi-layer film 13 b includes thicker ribs 44 b, 44 c bonded together to form bonded regions 49 b, 49 c adjacent to thinner regions 46 b that form un-bonded regions 47 b. The multi-layer film 13 b can have a grid pattern 36 b including alternating series of un-bonded regions 47 b and bonded regions 49 b, 49 c. In particular, un-bonded regions 47 b may comprise a plurality of discrete squares or rectangles while the remainder of the surface comprises a grid of horizontal and vertical bonded regions that are connected together. The bonded regions 49 b, 49 c can include stripes 49 b that extend along the multi-layer film 13 b in the machine direction, and stripes 49 c that extend along the film in the transverse direction, which cross each other. As shown by FIG. 7A, in one or more implementations, the aspect ratio of the rows and columns of the bonded regions 49 b, 49 c can be approximately 1 to 1. In alternative implementations, the aspect ratio of the rows and columns of bonded regions 49 b, 49 c can be greater or less than 1 to 1, for example, as explained in greater detail in relation to FIG. 13.

The multi-layer film 13 b with bonded regions and adjacent un-bonded regions created by MD and TD ring rolling can allow for greater material savings by further increasing the surface area of a given portion of film, by increasing the density of light lamination bonds within a given area, and may also provide properties or advantages not obtained by MD or TD ring rolling alone.

Additionally, the bonded regions 49 b, 49 c and thicker ribs 44 b, 44 c can be visually distinct from the un-bonded regions 47 b and thinner regions 46 b as a result bring the second and first layers 10, 10′ in direct contact as described above. One will appreciate that the size of the upper surfaces of the ridges 24, 26, 56, 58 (FIGS. 3B and 5C) can dictate the visibility of any visually-distinct regions created by the ring rolling. For example, in one or more embodiments bonded regions 49 b, 49 c with a width less than 1/16th of an inch may be somewhat difficult to detect or see. As such, in one or more embodiments the upper surfaces of the ridges 24, 26, 56, 58 can have a width equal to or greater than about 1/16th. In particular, in one or more embodiments the upper surfaces of the ridges 24, 26, 56, 58 can have a width of between about 1/16th of an inch and about 1 inch. Furthermore, the ridges 24, 26 of the MD ring rollers 12, 14 can have a different width than the ridges 56, 58 of the TD ring rollers 52, 54. In such implementations, the stripes 49 c may be more visibly-distinct than the stripes 49 b or vice versa.

The dotted areas/shaded areas of the multi-layer film 13 b can have metallic or other unexpected appearance, while the non-dotted areas (in this case stripes) can have the appearance/color of pigmented second layer 10′. For example, when the pigmented film 10′ is black, the dotted areas/shaded areas can have a silvery metallic or grey appearance while the non-dotted areas have a black appearance.

FIG. 7A illustrates a multi-layer film 13 b in which both the first layer 10 and the second layer 10′ passed together through the MD ring rollers 12, 14 and the TD ring rollers 52, 54. In alternative embodiments, one of the first layer 10 and the second layer 10′ can pass through one of the MD or TD ring rollers separately prior to the films 15 passing together through the other of the MD or TD ring rollers. For example, FIG. 7B illustrates a multi-layer film 13 b′ in which the first layer 10 was MD incrementally-stretched prior to passing together with the second layer 10′ through the TD ring rollers 52, 54 to TD incrementally-stretched and discontinuously bonded to the layers 15 together. As shown, the MD extending stripes 44 b can have a metallic or otherwise unexpected appearance while the TD extending stripes 44 c have an appearance/color of the second layer 10′. Furthermore, the intersection of the MD extending stripes 44 b and the TD extending strips 44 c can be visually distinct from the rest of the TD extending stripes 44 c such the film 13 b′ has a stitched appearance.

In yet further implementations, a manufacturer can use diagonal or helical (DD) ring rolling. DD ring rolling processes (and associated DD intermeshing rollers) can be similar to the MD ring rolling process (and associated MD intermeshing rollers 12, 14) described herein above, except that the ridges and grooves of the DD intermeshing rollers can extend at an angle relative to the axes of rotation. In particular, the ridges and grooves of the DD ring rollers can extend at an angle of between about 15 degrees and about 75 degrees relative to the axes of rotation (or the MD or TD directions). FIG. 8 illustrates a DD incrementally-stretched and incrementally-bonded multi-layer film 13 c formed by bonding two films together by passing the films through DD ring rollers. As shown the multi-layer film 13 c can have a diamond pattern 36 c. The diamond pattern 36 c can include alternating series of diamond-shaped thinner regions 46 c defining un-bonded areas or regions 47 c and thicker ribs 44 a secured by bonds to form bonded regions 49 d.

The bonded regions can include stripes 49 d oriented at an angle relative to the transverse direction such that the stripes 49 d are neither parallel to the transverse or machine direction. The illustrated configuration may be achieved with two ring rolling operations, similar to that of FIG. 7A, but in which the DD ring rollers of each operation are angularly offset relative to one another (e.g., one providing an angle of about 45° off of MD ring rolling, the other providing an angle of about 45° off of TD ring rolling). One will appreciate that DD ring rolling the film can biaxially orient the thinner, stretched regions 46 c. In particular, orient the thinner, stretched regions 46 c at an angle to the machine direction and the transverse direction. Furthermore, the bonded regions 49 d can be visually-distinct from the non-bonded regions 47 c as describe above in relation to the bonded regions 49-49 c and non-bonded regions 47-47 b.

In accordance with another implementation, a structural elastic like film (SELF) process may be used to create a thermoplastic film with strainable networks, which similarly results in discontinuous bonding of adjacent layers within a multi-layer film. As explained in greater detail below, the strainable networks can include adjacent bonded and un-bonded regions. U.S. Pat. No. 5,518,801; U.S. Pat. No. 6,139,185; U.S. Pat. No. 6,150,647; U.S. Pat. No. 6,394,651; U.S. Pat. No. 6,394,652; U.S. Pat. No. 6,513,975; U.S. Pat. No. 6,695,476; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0134923; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0093766 each disclose processes for forming strainable networks or patterns of strainable networks suitable for use with implementations of the present invention. The contents of each of the aforementioned patents and publications are incorporated in their entirety by reference herein.

FIG. 9 illustrates a pair of SELF'ing intermeshing rollers 72, 74 for creating strainable networks with lightly bonded regions in a film. The first SELF'ing intermeshing roller 72 can include a plurality of ridges 76 and grooves 78 extending generally radially outward in a direction orthogonal to an axis of rotation 16. Thus, the first SELF'ing intermeshing roller 72 can be similar to a TD intermeshing roller 52, 54. The second SELF'ing intermeshing roller 74 can include also include a plurality of ridges 80 and grooves 82 extending generally radially outward in a direction orthogonal to an axis of rotation 20. As shown by FIG. 9, however, the ridges 80 of the second SELF'ing intermeshing roller 74 can include a plurality of notches 84 that define a plurality of spaced teeth 86.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a multi-layer film 13 d with bonded regions dispersed about un-bonded regions created using the SELF'ing intermeshing rollers 72, 74 is shown. In particular, as the films 10, 10′ pass through the SELF'ing intermeshing rollers 72, 74, the teeth 86 can press a portion of the multi-layer web or film out of plane to cause permanent deformation of a portion of the film in the Z-direction. The portions of the film that pass between the notched regions 84 of the teeth 86 will be substantially unformed in the Z-direction, resulting in a plurality of deformed, raised, rib-like elements 88. The length and width of rib-like elements 88 depends on the length and width of teeth 86.

As shown by FIG. 10, the strainable network of the multi-layer film 13 d can include first thicker regions 44 e, second thicker regions 44 f, stretched, thinner transitional regions 46 d connecting the first and second thicker regions 44 e, 44 f. The first thicker regions 44 e and the stretched, thinner regions 46 d form the raised rib-like elements 88 of the strainable network. In one or more embodiments, the rib-like elements 88 can comprise bonded regions 49 e can be discontinuous or separated as they extend across the multi-layered film 15 e in both transverse and machine directions. This is in contrast to stripes that extend continuously across a film in one of the machine or transverse directions.

The rib-like elements 88 can allow the multi-layer 13 d to undergo a substantially “geometric deformation” prior to a “molecular-level deformation.” As used herein, the term “molecular-level deformation” refers to deformation, which occurs on a molecular level and is not discernible to the normal naked eye. That is, even though one may be able to discern the effect of molecular-level deformation, e.g., elongation or tearing of the film, one is not able to discern the deformation, which allows or causes it to happen. This is in contrast to the term “geometric deformation,” which refers to deformations of multi-layer film 13 d which are generally discernible to the normal naked eye when the multi-layer film 13 d or articles embodying the multi-layer film 13 d are subjected to an applied strain. Types of geometric deformation include, but are not limited to bending, unfolding, and rotating.

Thus, upon application of strain, the rib-like elements 88 can undergo geometric deformation before either the rib-like elements 88 or the flat regions undergo molecular-level deformation. For example, an applied strain can pull the rib-like elements 88 back into plane with the flat regions prior to any molecular-level deformation of the multi-layer film 13 d. Geometric deformation can result in significantly less resistive forces to an applied strain than that exhibited by molecular-level deformation.

In addition to improved properties thus provided by the ability to geometrically deform, the SELF'ing process also discontinuously and lightly laminates adjacent layers of the multi-layer film together, providing the benefits noted above. In particularly, the film layers 10, 10′ can be lightly laminated at regions 49 e, but un-bonded at regions 47 d. The strength of the lamination bond is relatively weak, so as to be less than the weakest tear resistance of the individual layers of the multi-layer film. Thus, the lamination bond is broken rather than the individual layer tearing upon application of a force. Typically, tearing in the MD direction requires less applied force than tearing in the TD direction, thus in one embodiment, the lamination bond strength is less than the MD tear resistance of each individual layer of the multi-layer film.

FIG. 11 illustrates a multi-layer film 13 e with a strainable network of rib-like elements 88 a arranged in diamond patterns. The strainable network of the multi-layer film 13 e can include first thicker regions 44 e, second thicker regions 44 f, stretched, thinner transitional regions 46 d connecting the first and second thicker regions 44 e, 44 f. The first thicker regions 44 e and the stretched, thinner regions 46 d can form the raised rib-like elements 88 a of the strainable network. In one or more embodiments, the rib-like elements 88 a can comprise bonded regions 49 e. Furthermore, the bonded regions 49 e can be visually-distinct from the non-bonded regions 47 d as describe above in relation to the bonded regions 49-49 c and non-bonded regions 47-47 b.

One or more implementations of the present invention can include strainable network patterns other than those shown by FIGS. 10 and 11, or combinations of various patterns. It should be understood that the term “pattern” is intended to include continuous or discontinuous sections of patterns, such as may result, for example, from the intersection of first and second patterns with each other. Furthermore, the patterns can be aligned in columns and rows aligned in the machine direction, the transverse direction, or neither the machine nor transverse directions.

One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that using ring rolling and/or SELFing to form the light bonds can provide the additional benefit of stretching the film layers, thereby reducing the basis weight of the multi-layered lightly-laminated film. Thus, using incremental stretching to form the light bonds can allow for multi-layer films at a lower basis weight (amount of raw material) to perform the same as or better than higher basis weight mono-layer or co-extruded films.

Additionally, or alternatively to ring rolling and SELFing, one or more implementations include using embossing, stamping, adhesive lamination, ultrasonic bonding, or other methods of laminating layers of a multilayer film or creating visually-distinct areas by bringing an first layer 10 into direct contact with an second layer 10′. In such implementations, one or more of the layers of the multi-layer film can be stretched to reduce the basis weight and/or modify the strength parameters of the film prior to lamination. Stretching of the individual layers can include incrementally-stretching (e.g., ring rolling, SELFing) or continuous stretching (e.g., MDO).

FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate an embossing type roll configuration for lightly bonding and/or forming visually-discrete areas by passing two films through a set of intermeshing rollers including a punch roll 71 and a cooperating die roll 73, where the punch roll is provided with punch regions 77 and the die roll is provided with corresponding die regions 75 for cooperating with the punch regions 77. The punch regions 77 may each have a plurality of punch elements 81 for cooperating with corresponding die elements 79 in the die regions 75. Cooperating engagement of the punch elements 81 with the die elements 79, with a sheet material therebetween, forms a bonded pattern on the material. Alternatively, the cooperating die roll 73 may comprise a conformable surface for conforming to the punch elements 81, or other surface configuration of the punch roll 71. In still further embodiments, the cooperating die roll 73 can comprise a rubber roll.

Referring to FIG. 12C, a pattern formed by the rolls 71, 73 is illustrated in which each of the bonded areas 49 f of the laminate is formed by a cooperating set of punch and die elements 79, 81, and the remaining unformed areas define the un-bonded areas 47 e of the multi-layer film with the unexpected appearance.

One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that using ring rolling and/or SELFing to form the light bonds can provide the additional benefit of stretching the film layers, thereby reducing the basis weight of the multi-layer film. Thus, using incremental stretching to form the light bonds can allow for multi-layer films at a lower basis weight (amount of raw material) to perform the same as or better than higher basis weight mono-layer or co-extruded films.

As discussed in detail above, implementations of the present invention involve forming multi-layered films with unexpected appearances and then forming visually-distinct areas in such films by bringing the individual film layers into intimate contact. The following examples describe various exemplary multi-layered films with unexpected appearances.

EXAMPLES Example A—Control

A continuously laminated two ply film was created by overlaying a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, black film containing 4.8% carbon black with a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, un-pigmented film with 2.5 mil tall ribs spaced approximately 400 mils apart (formed by extruding the film in a ribbed pattern) and continuously laminating the films together by coextrusion. The laminated film A had a black appearance as shown in Table I.

Example B

A discontinuously laminated two ply film was created by overlaying a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, black film containing 4.8% carbon black with a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, un-pigmented film and laminating the films together discontinuous adhesive lamination. The laminated film B had a slightly silver metallic appearance as shown in Table I.

Example C

A discontinuously laminated two ply film was created by overlaying a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, black film containing 4.8% carbon black with a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, un-pigmented film and laminating the films together by MD ring rolling at 430 DOE with a 400 pitch tool. The laminated film C had a more silver metallic appearance as shown in Table I.

Example D

A discontinuously laminated two ply film was created by overlaying a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, black film containing 4.8% carbon black with a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, un-pigmented film with 2.5 mil tall ribs spaced approximately 0.40 inches apart (formed by extruding the film in a stretched ribbed pattern) and laminating the films together by MD ring rolling at 430 DOE with a 400 pitch tool. The laminated film D had a more silver metallic appearance and shown in Table I.

Example E

A discontinuously laminated two ply film was created by overlaying a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, black film containing 4.8% carbon black with a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, un-pigmented film with 2.5 mil tall ribs spaced approximately 0.40 inches apart (formed by extruding the film in a ribbed pattern) and laminating the films together by TD ring rolling at 20 DOE with a 40 pitch tool. The laminated film E had a more silver metallic appearance and shown in Table I.

Example F

A discontinuously laminated two ply film was created by overlaying a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, black film containing 4.8% carbon black with a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, un-pigmented film with 2.5 mil tall ribs spaced approximately 0.40 inches apart (formed by extruding the film in a ribbed pattern), the un-pigmented film then stretched by MD ring rolling at 430 DOE with a 400 pitch tool and laminating the films together by TD ring rolling at 20 DOE with a 40 pitch tool. The laminated film F had a silvery appearance and shown in Table I.

Example G

A discontinuously laminated two ply film was created by overlaying a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, black film containing 4.8% carbon black with a 0.5 mil, 0.920 density LLDPE, un-stretched, un-pigmented film with 2.5 mil tall ribs spaced approximately 0.40 inches apart (formed by extruding the film in a ribbed pattern), the un-pigmented film then stretched by MD ring rolling at 430 DOE with a 400 pitch tool and laminating the films together the discontinuous application of adhesive. The laminated film F had a silvery appearance and shown in Table I.

TABLE I Appearance Multi-ply Film Black = 0 Un-Pigmented on Silver Pigmented Description Metallic = 4 Example A - Pigmented - Unstretched 0 Control Un-Pigmented - Unstretched Continuous lamination via co-extrusion Example B Pigmented - Unstretched 1 Un-Pigmented - Unstretched Discontinuous Un-Stretched lamination with adhesive Example C Pigmented - Unstretched 2 Un-Pigmented - Unstretched Discontinuous MD Stretched lamination Example D Pigmented - Unstretched 3 Un-Pigmented - Unstretched, non-Flat Discontinuous MD Stretched lamination Example E Pigmented - Unstretched 3 Un-Pigmented - Unstretched, non-Flat Discontinuous TD Stretched lamination Example F Pigmented - Unstretched 4 Un-Pigmented - MD Stretched Discontinuous TD Stretched lamination Example G Pigmented - Unstretched 4 Un-Pigmented - Non-Flat Stretched Discontinuous Un-Stretched Adhesive lamination

The Examples in Table I show that a multi-ply film resulting from the discontinuous lamination of an un-pigmented ply to a pigmented ply, where the un-pigmented ply has been cold stretched by prior to or during lamination, will have a noticeably metallic appearance.

One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that the multi-layered films with the unexpected appearances and visually-distinct areas can form part of any type of product made from, or incorporating, thermoplastic films. For instance, grocery bags, trash bags, sacks, packaging materials, feminine hygiene products, baby diapers, adult incontinence products, sanitary napkins, bandages, food storage bags, food storage containers, thermal heat wraps, facial masks, wipes, hard surface cleaners, and many other products can include lightly bonded multi-layer films to one extent or another. Trash bags and food storage bags may be particularly benefited by the films and methods of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 13, in a particular implementation of the present invention, the multi-layer film 13 with a unique appearance illustrated in FIG. 4 may be incorporated in a bag construction, such as a flexible draw tape bag. The multi-layered bag 100 can include a bag body formed from a piece of incrementally-stretched multi-layered film folded upon itself along a bag bottom 94. Side seals 93 and 95 can bond the sides 96, 98 of the bag body together to form a semi-enclosed container having an opening 90 along an upper edge 102. The bag 100 also optionally includes closure means 104 located adjacent to the upper edge 102 for sealing the top of the bag 100 to form a fully-enclosed container or vessel. The bag 100 is suitable for containing and protecting a wide variety of materials and/or objects. The closure means 104 can comprise flaps, adhesive tapes, a tuck and fold closure, an interlocking closure (e.g., a zipper closure), a slider closure, or other closure structures known to those skilled in the art for closing a bag. For example, FIG. 13 illustrates a draw tape 104 enclosed within the upper portion of the bag 100 by a hem seal 91.

Furthermore, a bag 100 formed from a multi-layered discontinuously-laminated film can have a first or first layer of thermoplastic material. The first layer can include first and second side walls joined along a bottom edge, a first side edge, and an opposing second side edge. In particular, the bottom edge of the first layer can comprise a fold. The bag 100 can also include a second or second layer of thermoplastic material. The second layer can include including first and second side walls joined along a bottom edge, a first side edge, and an opposing second side edge. The second layer can be positioned within the first layer or vice versa. Furthermore, the first and the second layer are lightly bonded to each other and incrementally stretched.

As shown, the sides of the bag body can include two film layers with thicker regions 44 that are bonded 49 and stretched regions 46 that are un-bonded. Both the bonded, thicker regions 44, 49 and the stretched, unbounded regions 46, 47 can form of stripes. The stripes can extend across the multi-layered bag 100 in the TD, or in other words, from the bottom 94 of the bag 100 toward the top 102. The multi-layered bag 100 can require less material to form than an identical bag formed with film of the same thermoplastic material. Additionally, despite requiring less material, the multi-layered bag 100 includes improved strength properties imparted by lightly bonding adjacent layers of the multi-layer film together. As the bonded regions 49 are areas in which the second layer is in intimate contact with the first layer, the bonded regions 49 can be visually-distinct from unbounded areas 47 of the bag 100. In other words, the unbounded areas 46 can have a unique appearance or in other words and appearance that differs from that the second pigmented layer and the first layer (whether pigmented or transparent). As mentioned previously, in one or more embodiments the unique appearance is a metallic appearance. The visually-distinct bonded areas 49 can have the appearance of the second pigmented layer. For example, when the second pigmented-layer comprises black, the visually-distinct bonded areas 49 can have a black appearance.

FIG. 13 further illustrates that the side seals 93, 95 can also be visually distinct. In particular, the side seals can have the appearance of the second pigmented-layer and thus be visually distinct from a main body of the bag 100. As shown by FIG. 13, because the bonded areas 49 may comprise thin stripes the body of the bag 100 may have an appearance substantially that of the unique appearance. For example, in one or more embodiments the main body of the bag 100 can have a metallic appearance. Thus, the side seals 93, 95 can visually stand out compared to the rest of the bag 100. As shown by FIG. 13, in one or more embodiments the side seals can have an increased width compared to conventional side seams and can thus function as an aesthetic feature. For example, in one or more embodiments the side seams 93, 95 can have a width of between 1/16th an inch and one inch. In particular, the side seams 93, 95 can have a width of 1/16th an inch, ⅛th an inch, ¼th an inch, ½ an inch, ¾th an inch, or 1 inch.

FIG. 14 illustrates a multi-layered tie bag 100 a incorporating a multi-layered film in accordance with an implementation of the present invention. As shown, the sides of the tie bag 100 a can include a pattern of un-bonded, regions 47 f and bonded regions 49, 49 a created by MD and TD ring rolling. The bonded regions can include stripes that extend across the bag 100 a in the machine direction. Additionally, the bonded regions can include stripes that extend across the bag 100 a in the transverse direction, or in other words from the bag bottom 94 to flaps 110 of an upper edge 112 of the multi-layered bag 100 a. Bonded regions 49, 49 a are characterized by relatively light bonding of adjacent layers of the multi-layer film, which acts to absorb forces into breaking of the lamination bond rather than allowing that same force to cause tearing of either of the layers of the multi-layer film. Such action provides significantly increased strength to the multi-layer film as compared to a monolayer similar thickness film or compared to a multi-layer film of similar thickness where the layers are strongly bonded together (i.e., at a bond strength at least as great as the tear resistance of the weakest layer). The lamination bond includes a bond strength that is advantageously less than the tear resistance of each of the individual films so as to cause the lamination bond to fail prior to tearing of the film layers.

In comparison with the film 13 b of FIG. 7A, the spacing between the MD extending thicker ribs or regions 44 a are greater in the multi-layered bag 100 a. Using MD ring rolls having a greater pitch between ridges creates this effect. Similarly, the spacing of the TD extending thicker ribs 44 is greater in the multi-layered bag 100 a than the multi-layered film 13 b. Using TD ring rolls having a greater pitch between ridges creates this effect. Furthermore, the relative spacing between the MD extending stripes and the TD extending stripes differs in the multi-layered bag 100 a, while relative spacing is the same in the multi-layered film 13 b. This effect is created by using TD ring rolls having a greater pitch between ridges compared to the pitch between ridges of the MD ring rolls. Similar to the bag 100, the bonded regions 49 a, 49 can comprise areas of intimate contact between a first substantially un-pigmented layer and an second pigmented-layer. Thus, the bonded regions 49 a, 49 can be visually-distinct from the unbounded regions 47 f of the bag 100 a.

FIG. 14 further illustrates that the bag 100 a can include visually-distinct side seals 93 a, 95 a. In particular, FIG. 14 illustrates that the side seals 93 a, 95 a comprise a serpentine pattern. In alternative embodiments, the side seals can comprise other patterns. In any event, one will appreciate that a manufacturer can create visually-distinct and side seals to provide an aesthetic design to the bag 100 a.

In addition to the varying the pattern of visually-distinct regions in a bag or film, one or more implementations also include providing visually-distinct regions in certain sections of a bag or film. For example, FIG. 15A illustrates a multi-layered bag 100 b having an upper section adjacent a top hem seal 91 that comprises a region in which the second pigmented and first substantially un-pigmented layers are in intimate contact providing the upper area with a visually-distinct appearance. Similarly, the multi-layered bag 100 b includes a bottom section 102 adjacent a bottom fold or edge 94 in which the second pigmented and first lightly pigmented or un-pigmented layers are in intimate contact providing the bottom section with a visually-distinct appearance. In one or more embodiments, the bottom section is between 1/16^(th) an inch and 8 inches in length and extends in width from side seal to side seal. In other embodiments, the bottom section is between 1 an inch and 4 inches.

A middle section 204 of the multi-layered bag 100 b between the upper and lower sections on the other hand can include discontinuous visually-distinct regions. In particular, FIG. 15A illustrates that the middle section can include a strainable network of rib-like elements arranged in diamond patterns similar to the multi-layered film 13 e of FIG. 11. Thus, the middle section 204 of the multi-layered bag 100 b can include improved properties, such as elasticity and impact resistance, created by the strainable network. Furthermore, the visually-distinct regions (i.e., the stretched transitional regions of the rib-like elements) can serve to notify a consumer of that the middle section includes improved properties.

FIG. 15A further illustrates that the side seals 93, 95 can also be visually distinct. In particular, the side seals can have the appearance of the second pigmented-layer and thus be visually distinct from a main body of the bag 100 b. As shown by FIG. 15A, because the bonded areas 49 e may comprise two layers in intimate contact and the side seals can comprise four or more layers, the side seals 93, 95 can have an appearance that differs from the bonded areas 49 e and the upper and lower areas. For example, the side seals 93, 95 can comprise a darker shade of the color of the pigmented second-layer.

FIG. 15B illustrates a multi-layered bag 100 c having an upper section 100 adjacent a top hem seal 91 that comprises a region in which the second pigmented and first substantially un-pigmented or lightly pigmented layers are in intimate contact providing the upper area with a visually-distinct appearance. Similarly, the multi-layered bag 100 c includes a bottom section 102 adjacent a bottom fold or edge 94 in which the second pigmented and first lightly pigmented or un-pigmented layers are in intimate contact providing the bottom section with a visually-distinct appearance. In one or more embodiments, the bottom section is between 1/16^(th) an inch and 8 inches in length and extends in width from side seal to side seal. In other embodiments, the bottom section is between 1 an inch and 4 inches.

A middle section 103 of the multi-layered bag 100 c between the upper and lower sections on the other hand can include discontinuous visually-distinct regions. In particular, FIG. 15B illustrates that the middle section 103 can include alternating thicker ribs and thinner webs formed by passing the middle section 103 through TD ring rolls similar to the multi-layered film 13 a of FIG. 6. Thus, the middle section 103 of the multi-layered bag 100 c can include improved properties. Furthermore, the visually-distinct regions can serve to notify a consumer of that the middle section includes improved properties.

FIG. 15C shows another multi-layered bag 100 d with sidewalls a first plurality of raised rib-like elements 104 a in a macro pattern (e.g., a bulbous pattern) and a second plurality of raised rib-like elements 104 b in a micro pattern (e.g., four diamonds). As shown, the second plurality of raised rib-like elements 104 b in the micro pattern are nested within the macro patterns. Furthermore, the multi-layered bag 100 c includes web areas 113 a, 113 b. The web areas 113 a, 113 b can surround the micro and the macro patterns of raised rib-like elements. Furthermore, as shown by FIG. 15C, the web areas 113 b are arranged in a sinusoidal pattern. The plurality of web areas 113 a, 113 b comprise areas in which the first layer and the second layer are separated, and thus, have an unexpected appearance.

Additionally, FIG. 15C illustrates that the thermoplastic bags described herein can include areas with other patterns. In particular, FIG. 15C illustrates a top portion of the bag 110 c proximate the hem includes a fenced diamond pattern. The fenced diamond pattern can comprise raised-rib-like elements 104 arranged in diamond patterns where the intersections of the sides of the diamond are rounded rather than ending in corners. The fenced diamond pattern can also comprise web areas 113 comprise areas in which the first layer and the second layer are separated, and thus, have an unexpected appearance.

The multi-layered bag 100 c can further comprise areas lacking bonding such as the area 102 adjacent the bottom of the bag and area 100 proximate the hem of the bag. The areas 100, 102 comprise areas in which the first layer and the second layer are separated, and thus, have an unexpected appearance.

FIG. 15C further illustrates that the side seals 93, 95 and tape seals 108, 110 can be visually distinct. In particular, the side seals 93, 95 can have the appearance of the second pigmented-layer and thus be visually distinct from a main body of the bag 100 c. As shown by FIG. 15C, because the tape seals 108, 110 may comprise more layers in intimate contact than the side seals 93, 95, the tape seals 108, 110 can have an appearance that differs from the side seals 93, 95, and the upper and lower areas. For example, the tape seals 108, 110 can comprise a darker shade of the color of the pigmented second-layer. Similarly, the hem seal 115 can comprise a visually distinct area in which the layers of the bag are in intimate contact.

FIG. 15D illustrates yet another multi-layered bag 100 e with areas with an unexpected appearance and visually distinct areas. The multi-layered bag 100 e can include the same structure as the multi-layered bag 100 d albeit with a different pattern of intermittent bonds. In particular, the multi-layered bag 100 e may include a single pattern of raised like elements arranged in a checkerboard pattern. The pattern can comprise a micro pattern of raised rib-like elements 104 c and a macro pattern of raised rib-like elements 104 d.

FIG. 15E illustrates a view of the multi-layered bag 100 e within a trash receptacle. As shown in this embodiment, the inner layer 117 of the multi-layered bag 100 e comprises the second layer (i.e., the layer with a darker pigment). The area 116 shows part of the hem in which the first layer over the second layer, and thus, comprises the unexpected appearance (e.g., a grey color). On the other hand, the hem seal 115 is visually distinct (i.e., an area in which the first and second layers are in intimate contact) is of a dark grey color. In alternative embodiments, the second layer (i.e., the layer with a darker pigment) can comprise the outer layer of the bag.

One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that a manufacturer can include decorative visually-distinct regions in the side seals or other regions of a bag by bringing the second pigmented and the first substantially un-pigmented or (lightly pigmented) layers into intimate contact. For example, FIG. 16 illustrates a draw string bag 100 c including a plurality of visually-distinct bonded areas 49 f interspersed among unbounded areas 47 e.

Thus, one will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that a manufacturer can tailor specific sections or zones of a bag or film with desirable properties by MD, TD, DD ring rolling, SELF'ing, or combinations thereof. One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that one or more implementations can include visually-distinct regions arranged in other patterns/shapes. Such additional patterns include, but are not limited to, intermeshing circles, squares, diamonds, hexagons, or other polygons and shapes. Additionally, one or more implementations can include visually-distinct regions arranged in patterns that are combinations of the illustrated and described patterns/shapes.

One or more implementations of the present invention can also include methods of forming multi-layered films and bags having a unique appearance and visually-distinct regions. FIGS. 17-22 and the accompanying description describe such methods. Of course, as a preliminary matter, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the methods explained in detail herein can be modified. For example, various acts of the method described can be omitted or expanded, additional acts can be included, and the order of the various acts of the method described can be altered as desired.

FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a high-speed manufacturing process 164 for creating multi-layered thermoplastic film(s) with the unexpected appearance and then producing multi-layered plastic bags therefrom with visually-distinct areas. According to the process 164, a first thermoplastic film layer 10 and a second thermoplastic film layer 10′ are unwound from roll 165 a and 165 b, respectively, and directed along a machine direction. Alternatively, the film layers 10, 10′ can be directly from one or more extrusion towers rather than stock rolls 165 a, 165 b. The first layer 10 can comprise a substantially un-pigmented layer, a lightly pigmented layer, or a layer pigmented with a first color and the second layer 10′ can comprise a pigmented layer with a second color.

The film layers 10, 10′ may pass between first and second cylindrical intermeshing rollers 166, 167 to incrementally stretch and lightly laminate the initially separate film layers 10, 10′ to create un-bonded regions and bonded regions in at least one section of a multi-layered lightly-laminated film 168. The intermeshing rollers 166, 167 shown in FIG. 19 have a construction similar to that of intermeshing rollers 12, 14 of FIGS. 3A-3B. In other embodiments, the intermeshing rollers 166, 167 can have the configuration of any of the other intermeshing rollers shown or described herein. The rollers 166, 167 may be arranged so that their longitudinal axes are perpendicular to the machine direction. Additionally, the rollers 166, 167 may rotate about their longitudinal axes in opposite rotational directions as described in conjunction with FIG. 3A. In various embodiments, motors may be provided that power rotation of the rollers 166, 167 in a controlled manner. As the film layers 10, 10′ pass between the first and second rollers 166, 167 the ridges and/or teeth of the intermeshing rollers 166, 167 can form a multi-layered film 168 with the unexpected appearance. The first and second rollers 166, 167 can also form visually distinct areas by bringing the layers 10, 10′ together into intimate contact. Depending upon the configuration of the intermeshing rollers 166, 167, such visually distinct areas can be readily visible or difficult to see.

During the manufacturing process 164, the multi-layered film 168 can also pass through a pair of pinch rollers 169, 170. The pinch rollers 169, 170 can be appropriately arranged to grasp the multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance.

A folding operation 171 can fold the multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance to produce the sidewalls of the finished bag. The folding operation 171 can fold the multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance in half along the transverse direction. In particular, the folding operation 171 can move a first edge 172 adjacent to the second edge 173, thereby creating a folded edge 174. The folding operation 171 thereby provides a first film half 175 and an adjacent second web half 176. The overall width 177 of the second film half 176 can be half the width 177 of the pre-folded multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance.

To produce the finished bag, the processing equipment may further process the folded multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance. In particular, a draw tape operation 178 can insert a draw tape 179 into ends 172, 173 of the multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance. Furthermore, a sealing operation 180 can form the parallel side edges of the finished bag by forming visually-distinct heat seals 181 between adjacent portions of the folded multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance by bringing the first substantially un-pigmented or lightly pigmented layer 10 into intimate contact with the second pigmented layer 10′. The heat seal 181 may strongly bond adjacent layers together in the location of the heat seal 181 so as to tightly seal the edges of the finished bag. The heat seals 181 may be spaced apart along the folded multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance to provide the desired width to the finished bags. The sealing operation 180 can form the heat seals 181 using a heating device, such as, a heated knife.

A perforating operation 182 may form a perforation 183 in the heat seals 181 using a perforating device, such as, a perforating knife. The perforations 183 in conjunction with the folded first edge 174 can define individual bags 100 e that may be separated from the multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance. A roll 185 can wind the multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance embodying the finished bags 184 for packaging and distribution. For example, the roll 185 may be placed into a box or bag for sale to a customer.

In still further implementations, the folded multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance may be cut into individual bags along the heat seals 181 by a cutting operation. In another implementation, the folded multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance may be folded one or more times prior to the cutting operation. In yet another implementation, the side sealing operation 180 may be combined with the cutting and/or perforation operations 182.

The sealing operation 180 shown in FIG. 17 can be part of a continuous (FIGS. 18A and 18B) or reciprocating (FIG. 19) bag-making process. As shown in FIG. 18A, a continuous sealing process 180 typically has an input section 204, a rotary drum 206, and an output section 208. The film plies 202 continuously travel from the input section 204 to the rotary drum 206 and then to the output section 208.

The input section generally consists of a driven dancer assembly 210 to control film tension. The rotary drum 206 contains a plurality of heated seal bars 212 which can press against a sealing blanket 214 to make seals 230 on the film plies 202. The heated seal bars 212 can only heat the film plies 202 from one side.

End to end bags are formed with one seal 230 from the drum 206 and side-to-side bags are formed with a pair of seals 230. The drum 206 diameter may be adjusted and/or less than all of the seal bars 212 turned on to determine the distance between seals 230, and hence, bag size. The output section 208 generally includes assemblies that act on the film plies 202 downstream of the seals 230 being formed, such as perforators, winders, folders and the like. The continuous bag making process 180 has the advantage of operating at very high speeds (600 ft./min=300 bags/min).

The continuous bag making process 180 can additionally be used to make both the side seals 93, 95 and the tape or hem seals 91 described above. Because the tape seals hem seals 91 can involve more plies of material or different materials compared with the side seals 93, 95, the seal bars 212 can be divided into two individual seal bars. In particular, the seal bars can include a long seal side seal bar 220 and a shorter tape seal bar 222, as shown in FIG. 18B. Because the bag may have different plies of material in the side seals 93, 95 and the tape seals 91, the side seal bar 220 may have different heating properties from the tape seal bar 222. For example, the tape seal bar 220 may be heated to a higher temperature to penetrate the additional plies in the tape seals 91. Furthermore, as shown by FIG. 18C, in one or more embodiments the seal bars can comprise a decorative design. In particular, FIG. 18C illustrates a serpentine seal bar 212 a used to create the heat seals 93 a, 95 a described above in relation to FIG. 14.

Additionally, the heat seal bars 212, 212 a can have a width equal to or greater than about 1/16th. In particular, in one or more embodiments the heat seal bars 212, 212 a can have a width of between about 1/16th of an inch and about 1 inch. More particularly, the heat seal bars 212, 212 a can have a width of ⅛th an inch, ¼th an inch, ½ an inch, ¾ an inch, etc. The heat seal bars 212, 212 a can form heat seals 93, 95 having a corresponding width. The increased widths of the heat seal bars 212, 212 a can allow for the formation of visually noticeable side seals 93, 95.

As shown in FIG. 19, a reciprocating sealing process 180 a typically has an input section 204, a linear sealing section 205, and an output section 208. The input section 204 generally includes of a dancer assembly 210, and a driven nip 211. The film plies 202 are unwound continuously from a roll or during a continuous process and pass through the dancer assembly 210 to the driven nip 211. The driven nip 211 rotates intermittently, with one cycle of rotation reflecting the width of one bag. The nip 211 can stop for sealing and the time the nip 211 is motionless is adjustable as required for downstream operations (such as sealing).

The dancer assembly 210, prior to the intermittently operating nip 211 and after the continuously operating unwind or process, can gather the film plies 202 during the time the nip 211 is not rotating. This can provide enough film plies 202 to satisfy the requirements of the nip 211 when it begins rotating again. Hence, in the input section 204, the film plies 202 can move in a continuous manner, travel through a dancer assembly 210 that gathers the film plies 202, and through a nip 211 that operates in an intermittent manner, converting the film plies 202 motion from a continuous motion to an intermittent motion, one bag width at a time.

The linear sealing section 205 of a reciprocating bag making process 180 a can include of one or more sealing stations 214 with heated seal bars 316 spaced one bag width apart. The heated seal bars 316 can contact the film plies 202 each time the film plies 202 motion stops as the film plies 202 travel in a straight path through the machine. During the film plies 202 stoppage time, each seal bar 216 (similar to seal bars 212, 212 a) on a sealing station 214 can move from a stationary position 218 above or below the web to a position which places the seal bar 216 in contact with the film plies 202 from both sides. The seal bar 216 can then contact the film plies 202 for a period of time as required to make a seal 203. The seal bar 216 can then retract to its original stationary position 218, after which the film plies 202 advance intermittently a multiple of one or more bag widths and the process is repeated. One or more 203. The reciprocating process 180 a has the advantage of long residence times, heating the film plies from both sides and high quality seals 203, but can be limited in rate (typically 120 bags/min).

FIG. 20 illustrates another manufacturing process 164 a for producing a multi-layered bag with an unexpected appearance and visually distinct areas. The process 164 a can be similar to process 164 of FIG. 17, except that the film layers 10, 10′ are folded in half to form c-, u-, or j-folded films 15. Thus, in such implementations, the films 10, 10′ are unwound from the roll are already folded and inserted together. Methods of forming c-, u-, or j-folded films are described in International Patent Application No. PCT/US14/24431 filed Mar. 12, 2014 and entitled STOCK ROLLS CONTAINING A FIRST FOLDED FILM WITHIN A SECOND FOLDED FILM AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0115396. Each of the above-referenced patents and applications are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The folded film layers 15 may pass between first and second cylindrical intermeshing rollers 166, 167 to incrementally stretch and lightly laminate the separate film layers 10, 10′ to create un-bonded regions and bonded regions in at least one section of a multi-layered lightly-laminated film. As the film layers 10, 10′ pass between the first and second rollers 166, 167 the ridges and/or teeth of the intermeshing rollers 166, 167 can form a multi-layered film with the unexpected appearance. The first and second rollers 166, 167 can also form visually distinct areas by bringing the layers 10, 10′ together into intimate contact. Depending upon the configuration of the intermeshing rollers 166, 167, such visually distinct areas can be readily visible or difficult to see.

In any event, the process 164 a can continue as described above in relation to FIG. 17 and process 164 to produce finished bag with the unexpected appearance. In particular, a draw tape operation 178 can insert a draw tape 179 into ends 172, 173 of the multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance. Furthermore, a sealing operation 180 can form the parallel side edges of the finished bag by forming visually-distinct heat seals 181 between adjacent portions of the folded multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance by bringing the first substantially un-pigmented or lightly pigmented layer 10 into intimate contact with the second pigmented layer 10′. The heat seal 181 may strongly bond adjacent layers together in the location of the heat seal 181 so as to tightly seal the edges of the finished bag. The heat seals 181 may be spaced apart along the folded multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance to provide the desired width to the finished bags. The sealing operation 180 can form the heat seals 181 using a heating device, such as, a heated knife. A perforating operation 182 may form a perforation 183 in the heat seals 181 using a perforating device, such as, a perforating knife. The perforations 183 can define individual bags 100 e that may be separated from the multi-layer film 168 with the unexpected appearance.

FIG. 21 illustrates yet another manufacturing process 164 b for producing a multi-layered bag 100 a with an unexpected appearance and visually distinct areas. The process 164 a can be similar to process 164 a of FIG. 20, except that the fold films 15 can pass through a second set of intermeshing rollers 166 a, 167 a, respectively, after passing through intermeshing rollers 166, 167. In one or more embodiments, the intermeshing rollers 166 a, 167 a can comprise SELFing rollers or other rollers described herein. The intermeshing rollers 166 a, 167 a can further stretch and lightly bond at least a portion of the layers of the fold films 15 together and optionally create visually distinct areas as described above.

FIG. 22 illustrates yet another manufacturing process 164 c for producing a multi-layered bag 100 with an unexpected appearance and visually distinct areas such as those describe above in relation to Examples F and G. The process 164 c can involve unwinding a substantially un-pigmented or lightly pigmented first-film 10 from a first stock roll 165 a and passing the first film 10 through a pair of intermeshing rollers to incrementally stretch the substantially un-pigmented or lightly pigmented first-film 10.

The process can further involve laminating the substantially un-pigmented or lightly pigmented first-film 10 to a second pigmented film 10′ unwound from a second stock roll 165 b via a laminating process 177. The laminating process 177 can comprise a discontinuous stretched lamination (e.g., a ring rolling process, a selfing process). A discontinuous stretched lamination process can involve incrementally stretching and bonded the two layers 10, 10′ together. Alternatively, the laminating process can comprise a discontinuous un-stretched lamination process such as adhesive lamination, pressure bonding (e.g., embossing), ultrasonic bonding, corona lamination, and the like).

Accordingly, FIGS. 1A-22 and the corresponding text, therefore, specifically show, describe, or otherwise provide a number of systems, components, apparatus, and methods for forming an intermittently bonded and stretched multi-layer film with an unexpected appearance and visually distinct regions.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. 

We claim:
 1. A multi-layer film, comprising: a first thermoplastic film layer comprising a plurality of alternating stretched thinner webs and thicker ribs, the first thermoplastic film layer having a first appearance; a second pigmented thermoplastic film layer, the second pigmented thermoplastic film layer having a second appearance created by a pigment; a plurality of non-continuous bonds securing the first thermoplastic film layer to the second pigmented thermoplastic film layer; and wherein the multi-layer film, when viewed from first thermoplastic film layer side comprises: areas having a third appearance differing from the first and second appearances; and one or more visually-distinct areas having the second appearance or a fourth appearance.
 2. The multi-layer film as recited in claim 1, wherein the visually-distinct areas comprise areas in which the first thermoplastic film layer and the second pigmented thermoplastic film layer are in intimate contact.
 3. The multi-layer film as recited in claim 2, wherein the visually-distinct areas comprise areas in which in which the first thermoplastic film layer and the second pigmented thermoplastic film layer are heat sealed together.
 4. The multi-layer film as recited in claim 2, wherein the areas having the third appearance comprise areas in which the first thermoplastic film layer and the second pigmented thermoplastic film layer are separated.
 5. The multi-layer film as recited in claim 4, wherein: the first thermoplastic film layer first is unpigmented and the first appearance comprises a transparent appearance; the pigment is a second color and the second appearance comprises the second color; and the third appearance comprises a third color differing from the second color.
 6. The multi-layer film as recited in claim 4, wherein: the first thermoplastic film layer first comprises a first pigment of a first color and the first appearance comprises the first color; the second pigment is a second color and the second appearance comprises the second color; and the third appearance comprises a third color differing from the first color and the second color.
 7. The multi-layer film as recited in claim 6, wherein the fourth appearance comprises a lighter shade of the third color.
 8. The multi-layer film as recited in claim 7, wherein: the first color is white; the second color is carbon black; the third color is a light grey; and the fourth color is a dark grey.
 9. A multi-layered bag, comprising: a first pigmented thermoplastic bag comprising first and second opposing sidewalls joined together along a first side edge, an opposite second side edge, and a closed bottom edge, the first pigmented thermoplastic bag having a first color created by a first pigment; a second pigmented thermoplastic bag positioned adjacent to the first pigmented thermoplastic bag, the second pigmented thermoplastic bag comprising third and fourth opposing sidewalls joined together along a first side edge, an opposite second side edge, and a closed bottom edge, the second pigmented thermoplastic bag having a second color created by a second pigment; a plurality of non-continuous bonds securing the first pigmented thermoplastic bag to the second pigmented thermoplastic bag; and wherein the multi-layered bag, when viewed from a side comprising the first pigmented thermoplastic bag comprises: areas having a third color differing from the first color and the second color; and one or more visually-distinct areas having the second color of the second pigmented thermoplastic layer or a fourth color.
 10. The multi-layered bag as recited in claim 9, wherein the one or more visually-distinct areas comprise: a first heat seal securing the first side edge of the first transparent thermoplastic bag to the first side edge of the second pigmented thermoplastic bag; and a second heat seal securing the second side edge of the first transparent thermoplastic bag to the second side edge of the second pigmented thermoplastic bag.
 11. The multi-layered bag as recited in claim 9, wherein the first pigmented thermoplastic bag comprises a plurality of alternating stretched thinner webs and thicker ribs.
 12. The multi-layered bag as recited in claim 11, wherein the non-continuous bonds are aligned with the thicker ribs of the first pigmented thermoplastic bag.
 13. The multi-layered bag as recited in claim 11, wherein the plurality of non-continuous bonds comprises one of bonds formed from MD ring rolling bonds formed from TD ring rolling bonds formed from helical ring rolling bonds formed from embossing, or bonds formed from SELFing.
 14. The multi-layered bag as recited in claim 9, wherein: the visually-distinct areas comprise areas in which the first pigmented thermoplastic bag and the second pigmented thermoplastic bag are in intimate contact; and the areas having the third color comprise areas in which the first transparent thermoplastic bag and the second pigmented thermoplastic bag are separated.
 15. The multi-layered bag as recited in claim 9, wherein the visually-distinct areas comprise first areas having the second color and second areas comprising the fourth color.
 16. The multi-layered bag as recited in claim 15, wherein the first areas comprise tape seals and the second areas comprise side seals.
 17. The multi-layered bag as recited in claim 9, wherein the fourth color comprises a lighter shade of the third color.
 18. The multi-layered bag as recited in claim 9, wherein: the first color is white; the second color is carbon black; the third color is a light grey; and the fourth color is a dark grey.
 19. A method of producing a multi-layer film with an unexpected appearance, comprising: incrementally stretching a first pigmented thermoplastic layer comprising a first pigment, the first pigmented thermoplastic film layer having a first appearance created by the first pigment; non-continuously bonding a second pigmented thermoplastic layer to the first pigmented thermoplastic layer, the second pigmented thermoplastic film layer having a second appearance created by a second pigment, to create a multi-layer film with a third appearance differing from the second appearance and the first appearance; and bringing one or more areas of the first pigmented thermoplastic layer and the second pigmented thermoplastic layer of the multi-layer film into intimate contact thereby causing an appearance of the one or more areas to change from the third appearance to the second appearance.
 20. The method as recited in claim 19, wherein bringing one or more areas of the first non-pigmented thermoplastic layer and the second pigmented thermoplastic layer of the multi-layer film comprises heat sealing portions of the first pigmented thermoplastic layer to the second pigmented thermoplastic layer. 